Watching Before Watchmen: Dr. Manhattan #01

Sal and Braxton take an in-depth look at Before Watchmen: Dr. Manhattan #01. For Dr. Manhattan, past, present, and future are one and the same. But as he observes the events of his life, do they remain the same? Or are they changed? The very fact of his existence may have altered the nature of what will or will not be... Before Watchmen has already produced an enormous amount of rhetoric for and against it’s creation. This weekly series will take a look at each issue of the Before Watchmen event with as unbiased a perspective as possible. We will attempt to answer the simple question – “Are they any good?”WARNING: SPOILERS! WE WILL BE TALKING ABOUT THE EVENTS IN THE BOOK.This episode is brought to you by Discount Comic Book Service

Watching Before Watchmen | Rorshach #01

Sal and Braxton take an in-depth look at Before Watchmen: Rorschach #1 by Brian Azarello and Lee Bermejo. New York City. 1977. Dirty. Hot. Dangerous. This town is going to the dogs, and only one man has the guts to clean it up--Rorschach. But with a serial killer on the loose and a new drug lord looking to increase his territory, one man might not be enough. Before Watchmen has already produced an enormous amount of rhetoric for and against it’s creation. This weekly series will take a look at each issue of the Before Watchmen event with as unbiased a perspective as possible. We will attempt to answer the simple question – “Are they any good?”WARNING: SPOILERS! WE WILL BE TALKING ABOUT THE EVENTS IN THE BOOK.

S02E08 | I Draw Comics

Sal sits down with Ryan Stegman and Matt Marocco, co-creators of the "I Draw Comics" comic art work book. I DRAW COMICS is the ultimate tool for practicing the basics of Comic Book illustration, page design and the art of storytelling. Listen is to all the details of I Draw Comics and find out why you should support this project. For more information on the project, please visit www.idrawcomics.net.

Watching Before Watchmen | Ozymandias #02

Sal and Braxton take an in-depth look at Before Watchmen: Ozymandias #2 by Len Wein and Jae Lee. Adrian Veidt has returned to New York City and he's taking the underworld by storm as the new costumed hero, Ozymandias. Veidt continues his quest to save the world--or destroy it!
Before Watchmen has already produced an enormous amount of rhetoric for and against it’s creation. This weekly series will take a look at each issue of the Before Watchmen event with as unbiased a perspective as possible. We will attempt to answer the simple question – “Are they any good?”

Watching Before Watchmen | Nite Owl #2

Sal and Braxton take an in-depth look at Before Watchmen: Nite Owl #2 by J. Michael Straczynski, Andy Kuber and Joe Kubert. As Nite Owl and Rorschach continue their partnership in crime fighting, Dan Drieberg begins to explore a different side to his character. We get deep into the psyche and sexual predilections of Dan as well as see more of his early life and Rorschach's as well as they begin to investigate a disturbing murder.
Before Watchmen has already produced an enormous amount of rhetoric for and against it’s creation. This weekly series will take a look at each issue of the Before Watchmen event with as unbiased a perspective as possible. We will attempt to answer the simple question – “Are they any good?”
WARNING: SPOILERS! WE WILL BE TALKING ABOUT THE EVENTS IN THE BOOK.

Watching Before Watchmen | The Comedian #2

Sal and Braxton take an in depth look at Before Watchmen: Comedian #2 by Brian Azzarello and J. G. Jones. As Eddie Blake heads off to Vietnam, Braxton and Sal get deep into the politics, history and social aspects of the books setting. Hear about Cassius Clay and Sonny Liston, Jack and Bobby Kennedy, The French Connection, the Viet Cong and many other topics.
Before Watchmen has already produced an enormous amount of rhetoric for and against it’s creation. This weekly series will take a look at each issue of the Before Watchmen event with as unbiased a perspective as possible. We will attempt to answer the simple question – “Are they any good?”WARNING: SPOILERS! WE WILL BE TALKING ABOUT THE EVENTS IN THE BOOK.

Watching Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre #02

Sal and Braxton discuss Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre #02 by Darwyn Cooke, and Amanda Conner. Before Watchemn has already produced an enormous amount of rhetoric for and against it's creation. This weekly series will take a look at each issue of the Before Watchmen event with as unbiased a perspective as possible. We will attempt to answer the simple question - "Are they any good?"WARNING: SPOILERS! WE WILL BE TALKING ABOUT THE EVENTS IN THE BOOK.

Watching Before Watchmen: Minutemen #02

Braxton and Sal take an in depth look at Before Watchmen: Minutmen #2 by Darwyn Cooke and Phil Noto. Before Watchemn has already produced an enormous amount of rhetoric for and against it's creation. This weekly series will take a look at each issue of the Before Watchmen event with as unbiased a perspective as possible. We will attempt to answer the simple question - "Are they any good?"WARNING: SPOILERS! WE WILL BE TALKING ABOUT THE EVENTS IN THE BOOK.

Watching Before Watchmen: Ozymandias #01

Sal and Braxton take an in-depth look at Before Watchmen: Ozymandias #1 by Len Wein and Jae Lee. Before Watchmen has already produced an enormous amount of rhetoric for and against it’s creation. This weekly series will take a look at each issue of the Before Watchmen event with as unbiased a perspective as possible. We will attempt to answer the simple question – “Are they any good?”
WARNING: SPOILERS! WE WILL BE TALKING ABOUT THE EVENTS IN THE BOOK.

Around Comics S02E07 | Dwarves On Unicycles

On this episode, Sal and Braton sit down and free-style on many topics. We start off with a creative discussion on our own artistic successes and failures. How speed can sometimes be your enemy and learning to step away. We then move onto the incredible amount of elderly that die every day in Atlanta. From there we move on to Sal's nightmares from high school and the magic world of post office dwarves. Braxton likes the look of the new Bourne Legacy trailer but still hates asparagus. We then move onto the Amazing Spider-Man movie (SPOILERS!) and talk about how much we love Emma Stone. We eventually talk about comics including the Marvel Now event, Tales of Cthullu from Boom. H. P. Lovecraft and the Necronomicon, the League of Extraordinary Gentlemen Judge Dredd, Marshall Law. We finish up the show with a couple of listener emails and the introduction of Walter, the correspondence puppet.

Around Comics | Watching Before Watchmen: Nite Owl #01

Sal and Braxton take an in-depth look at Before Watchmen: Nite Owl #1 by J. Michael Straczynski, Andy Kuber and Joe Kubert. Before Watchmen has already produced an enormous amount of rhetoric for and against it's creation. This weekly series will take a look at each issue of the Before Watchmen event with as unbiased a perspective as possible. We will attempt to answer the simple question - "Are they any good?"WARNING: SPOILERS! WE WILL BE TALKING ABOUT THE EVENTS IN THE BOOK.

Watching Before Watchmen: Comedian #1

Braxton and Sal take an in depth look at Before Watchmen: Comedian #1 by Brian Azzarello and J. G. Jones. Before Watchemn has already produced an enourmous amount of rhetoric for and against it's creation. This weekly series will take a look at each issue of the Before Watchmen event with as unbiased a perspective as possible. We will attempt to answer the simple question - "Are they any good?"
WARNING: SPOILERS! WE WILL BE TALKING ABOUT THE EVENTS IN THE BOOK.

Around Comics S02E06 | American Muscle with Kevin Mellon

Sal and Braxton sit down with artist Kevin Mellon to discuss his work, his career and a myriad of other topics. We start with mixed martial arts, the UFC and Kevin's book 'HEART' written by Attack of the Show's Blair Butler. We find out the connection between fighting and making comics. We then move on to 'Archer', the outrageous animated series on the FX Networks that Kevin draws storyboards for. From there we jump in a car and hit the road for 'American Muscle', Kevin's new book with master of horror Steve Niles in the Creator-Owned Heroes series. Along the many other topics are discussed, many more laughs are had and once again we figure out the secrets of the universe.

Watching Before Watchmen | Silk Spetre #01

Sal and Braxton discuss Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre #01 by Darwyn Cooke & Amanda Conner. Before Watchmen has already produced an enormous amount of rhetoric for and against it’s creation. This weekly series will take a look at each issue of the Before Watchmen event with as unbiased a perspective as possible. We will attempt to answer the simple question – “Are they any good?”
WARNING: SPOILERS! WE WILL BE TALKING ABOUT THE EVENTS IN THE BOOK.

Watching Before Watchmen | Minutemen #01

Sal and Braxton discuss the first Before Watchmen book – Minutemen #01 by Darwyn Cooke. Before Watchmen has already produced an enormous amount of rhetoric for and against it’s creation. This weekly series will take a look at each issue of the Before Watchmen event with as unbiased a perspective as possible. We will attempt to answer the simple question – “Are they any good?”WARNING: SPOILERS! WE WILL BE TALKING ABOUT THE EVENTS IN THE BOOK.

Around Comics S02E05 | The Right Stuff

Sal sits down with Braxton Harrison and Steve Bryant to discuss the ever-changing world of creator-owned comics.As the talk moves along many topics are brought up including the Happy Riding Bottom Club, Aviatrix, The Right Stuff, Carl Hiassen, Bored to Death, Digital comics, Kickstarter.com, Sullivan's Sluggers, the Avengers, Steed & Mrs. Peel, Dr. Who, Who is Jake Ellis and more.

Around Comics Ep. 004 - Tom Wears a Wig

Around Comics is back for February of 2012. The big news about Before Watchmen gets Tom, Chris and Sal talking about fan reaction, Alan Moore, creator contracts and more. Tom read Beanworld, Sal read X-Statix and Chris read the X-Men Omnibus Vol.2. Listen in for thoughts on all of this books plus some Oscar talk including The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Moneyball, Drive & The Help. At the end of the episode things get weird and Tom wears a wig.

Around Comics Ep. 003 - Wonder Bread He-Man

Around Comics is back to ring in the New Year! Tim Seeley joins Chris, Tom & Sal to talk about the Holidays and some of the presents they received including… Wonderbread He-Man? Tis is starting his run on Witchblade and he talks about the challenges and rewards of working on the long running series from Top Cow. There's plenty of movie & TV talk mixed in with thoughts on comics and the comics industry. Tom loves Skyscrapers of the Midwest. Chris loves Skyrim. Sal hates the Packers.Happy New Year!

2011

Dec 05, 2011

Around Comics Ep. 002 - Happy Holidays & Holy Terrors

Happy Holidays from everyone at Around Comics! Join Sal, Tom, Chris and returning guest Ryan Browne for a wide sweeping conversation about the past month's comic culture happenings. The guys talk about the recently rumored return of The Watchmen and the healthiest ways to approach sequels. Last month Sal promised Tom that he would not only read Holy Terror, but force himself to like it. Find out if Sal was able to succeed on his claim. There's more praise for Mark Waid and his work on Daredevil, as well as a story about how Paolo Rivera saved Ryan Browne's life... Kind of. Ryan tells us about his current project at IDW with writer Mike Costa called Smoke & Mirrors. It's a series you won't want to miss.Have a great end to your 2011!

Around Comics Ep. 001 - ALL NEW NUMBER 1

It's a new beginning as the original Around Comics crew reassembles. Tom is back from his exile on the the East Coast, and he's here to thrill us with stories of bad Mexican food and how Wes Welker plays football "The Right Way". The gang discusses some of the New DC 52 and why Aquaman may or may not be lame. TV talk focuses on Grimm, Misfits, The Walking Dead and what makes for a better Zombie. There is much marveling at the rise of convention cosplayers, and the brilliance of Mel Brooks's Blazing Saddles. The Petrograd art exhibit at Challengers spurs conversation on the true fiction graphic novel and the conspiracy to murder Rasputin. Why can't George Lucas stop tinkering with Star Wars? Tom and Sal make fun of Chris's new boots.

Around Comics Ep. 283 - Roadtrip!

Chris and special guest Ali Colluccio hit the road between Chicago and Ft. Wayne Indiana for a Curling trip and lots of comics talk. Listen in for a rambling conversation that touches on the recent Harvey Awards, classic X-Men stories, Ali's boyfriend Thor, writing about comics and more. Oh yeah, and Curling!

Around Comics Ep. 282 - Where is everybody?

As the rest of the comics world takes their annual trip to San Diego, Around Comics stays home to comment on Comic-Con from afar. Listen in for thoughts on Legion Lost, The Avengers & New Avengers, Star Trek and the awesomeness of Shatner and much much more.

Around Comics Ep. 281 - God Hates Around Comics

Ryan Browne joins Chris and Sal for a winding and wandering conversation about comics, the comics industry, the language of comics and... why Die Hard is one of the greatest movies ever. Listen in to find out how Ryan knows everyone in the industry and how he will eventually take over the Earth with the awesome that is God Hates Astronauts & his new book, Blast Furnace. And Sal loves Trains.
Music by: Strike Under, The Starlight Mints, The Cult & Tom Waits

Around Comics Ep. 280 - May 2011

Around Comics Ep. 280 - Revolting YouthIt's a busy night at Challengers Comics + Conversation as Chris and Sal welcome Mike Norton, Sean McKeever, Josh Elder, Paul Mounts & Tony Akins to the show. Mike and Sean talk about being reunited for Marvel's Fear Itself: Youth in Revolt and working on their co-created character Gravity again. Things get more and more hectic as the show moves along and the crowd grows for this evening of comics, art and plenty of beer.

Around Comics Ep. 279 - April 2011

Around Comics Ep. 279 - April ShowersChris and Sal are joined by Tim Seeley and Kiel Phegley on a rainy Spring afternoon in Chicago. After praising the Bulls playoff win, the panel moves on to a plethora of comics and comics industry talk. Tim and the rest of the 4 Star Studios team has released a fantastic digital series called Double Feature. Find out how he and Mike Norton's first issue debuted and what the reactions have been. Comic reviews include The Girl and the Gorilla, Journey Into Mystery and more!

Around Comics Ep. 278 - Feb 2011

Around Comics Ep. 277 - January 2011

HAPPY NEW YEAR! A new year and a new episode of Around Comics welcome International Man of Mystery and Artist Extraordinaire Tony Akins. The conversations winds it's way from Frank Capra… er Cappa and kodachrome, Alan Moore & Jason Aaron, Patton Oswalt's Otaku, Chicago Art Shows, comics education and the Static Creep of airplane propellers.

2010

Dec 14, 2010

Around Comics Ep. 276 - December 2010

Sal and Chris are joined by Comic Book Resources News Editor Kyle Phigley and local artist and long time friend of the program Tom Kelly. The fantastic foursome pour over a cornucopia of subjects including Detective Comics, The Walking Dead, Thor, Tron, Batwoman, Internet Trolling, and much, much more. Later in the episode we are joined by Mike Norton to talk about Young Justice and more.Happy Holidays from Chris and Sal.

Around Comics - SPECIAL - Grant Morrison - Talking With Gods

Join Chris and Sal for this special edition of Around Comics as they welcome Jordan Rennert, the Producer and Director of Photography of Grant Morrison: Talking with Gods. This Question and Answer session was recorded at Challengers Comics after a screening of the documentary.

Around Comics - Nov 2010

Around Comics for November 2010 -Chris Neseman and Brion Salazar are joined by Kiel Phegley and Tim Seeley for a post Halloween conversation about The Walking Dead, John Carpenter, Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes, Clint, Symbols for the Symbol Minded, The British, Apples vs. Cake and much much more.

Around Comics Ep 274 - The Long Goodbye Pt. 3 E

This is it. The last of 3 episodes from the final Around Comics recording. Chris and Sal say goodbye with help from Kyle Bice, Stevie D, Chris Burnham, Mark Beaty, Christian Alamy and more. We take a walk down memory lane with clips from Gene Colan, Greg Rucka, Jason Aaron, Matt Fraction, Denny O'Neil and John Byrne.It's been an amazing ride. Thanks for all the Fish!

Around Comics Ep 273 - The Long Goodbye Pt. 2

The 2nd episode of the long goodbye for Around Comics rolls into action with some of our favorite past guests. Ande Parks is working on some new projects for Green Hornet, and he even has Sal interested. John Siuntres and Patrick Brower drop in for some great conversation and a preview of what will be happening during the weekend of C2E2. We wrap up with Hilary Barta and Christian Alamy with a wandering discussion about art, inking and Ultimate Popeye.

Around Comics Ep 272 - The Long Goodbye Pt. 1

The final recordings of Around Comics start here. Dark Tower Comics was filled with friends on a Friday night to help us send off the show in style. Tom Katers joins us from the road with stories of skate punks, back pain and east coast juggling improve. Mike Norton and Tiny Hank talk Shazam and long distance relationships gone bad. Tom Fowler checks in with a Mysterius The Unfathomable update and lets us know he'll be at C2E2 (get on the pre-sketch list now!). We couldn't wrap up the show without talking with longtime cast member and super talented creator Skottie Young. Skottie fills us in on what his life has been like for the last year, and what we can look forward to.Thanks for all the fish!Chris, Tom and Sal

Around Comics Ep. 271 - The Green Hornet's Nest E

Around Comics welcomes Stevie D from The CBQ podcast and John Siuntres back to the panel for a conversation about First Wave, Pulps, Golden Age Comics, The Mighty Avengers, Canada and much more. After offending most of the free world, the panel engages in a debate of "what is good" and the legacy of The Green Hornet.Featured Music by: Daptone Records

Around Comics Ep. 270 - Drag Racing

The countdown is on to our last episode. Sal is back and he joins Chris for a conversation about The Big Bang Theory and… Around Curling? Later the panel welcomes Stevie D and John Siuntres for a frantic, disjointed and fun conversation about a variety of comics and pop culture topics.

Around Comics Ep. 268 - Has Stars on Their Knees

There were big changes to the executive positions at DC and Around Comics is here to discuss it. Before we dive into the business of comics, there's plenty of talk about Supergirl #50, The Wintermen, Detective Comics and much more. Chris is joined by John Siuntres, Kyle Byce and Jenny Frison.Featured music by: The Replacements

Around Comics Ep. 267 - Airline Lubrication

Around Comics returns for another 1st Class conversation about comics and comics culture. Audio problems are cast aside and the panel dives into a box of airline booze and a discussion about the iPad, comics forums, comics journalism and much much more. Special guests Sal Abbinanti and Kiel Phegley join Chris and Sal.

Around Comics Ep. 266 - The Life & Times of Thomas Katers E

Join us for an episode 4 years in the making. Tom Katers has brought us insightful and hilarious comics conversation every week, and now it's time for us to thank him before he leaves Chicago and Around Comics. Special guests Christian Alamy, Chris Burnham, Tim Seeley, Mike Norton, John Siuntres, Hilary Barta and Mark Beatty join Chris and Sal for the sendoff of Around Comics' favorite son.Remember to enter our C2E2 contest for tickets and exclusive merchandise at www.c2e2.com/aroundcomics

Around Comics Book Club - Strangers In Paradise Vol 1

Around Comics Ep. 265 - Orc Junk

It's the first of Tom's last two episodes. Turn that frown upside down! Dark Tower is filled with tons of friends that are wishing Tom well on his journey. Lots of comics talk including Amazing Spider-Man, Adventure Comics, Daytripper, Orc Stain and much more!We also have an announcement about the future of the show.Featured music by The Waco Brothers

Around Comics Ep. 264 - Moleman's Finer Fasions

Chris, Tom and Mike Norton are back for the second episode from New Years Day. A rambling scrambling discussion includes thoughts on Battlestar Galactica, Doctor Who, Powers, WONK, The Magic of SHAZAM, Captain Britain MI-13, The Looking Glass Wars & Hatter M, Blackest Night and more.Featured music by Jellyfish

Around Comics Ep. 263 - The Aughts

Happy New Year! Chris, Tom and Mike Norton ring in the new year at Challengers Comics on a very chilly and hungover day. It's a new year and a new decade, so the panel takes the opportunity to look back at how comics and the comics industry has changed during The Aughts. Chris spent New Years Eve with piles of trades. Tom wants less old book, so he gives away huge bag of Legion comics. Mike liked being in charge of Challengers and stumping customers with Blue Beetle trivia.Happy New Year!Featured music by Devin Davis

2009

Dec 22, 2009

Around Comics - A Conversation with Rick Remender

Rick Remender drops by to talk about his new project The Last Days of American Crime and some of his other work including The Punisher, Fear Agent and more.Happy Holidays! See you next year.Featured music by Ultra Lounge

Around Comics Ep. 262 - Mandates

Happy Festivus! Join Chris, Tom, John and Hank for a Holiday episode filled with comics talk, movie talk and general silliness. Unwritten, Jonah Hex, Storming Paradise, Flash: Rebirth and more. Hank is an aspiring film maker and we get a chance to talk comics movies and the changing landscape of movie studios.

Around Comics Book Club - Hellblazer: Dangerous Habits

Around Comics Ep. 261 - Where's My Backhoe?

Around Comics returns to our regular home at Dark Tower comics. Join Chris, Tom, Hank and John as they mix in some comics talk around discussions about competitive shooting, Wisconsin gun clubs and stealing art with a backhoe. Alex Robinson drops by to tell us about his new book, A Kidnapped Santa Claus. Find out why this makes a perfect stocking stuffer, and what it was like adapting the L. Frank Baum story. Featured music by Urge Overkill

Around Comics Ep. 260 - The Irish Lantern

The Blackest Friday continues. Christian Alamy, Patrick Brower and John Siuntres join Chris and Tom for more Post-Thanksgiving comic book discussion. Lots of talk about Thor, Blackest Night, Brave and the Bold, X-Men, Flash, Geoff Johns' fake solicits and Image United!Also in this episode, maybe, just maybe the worst Irish accent of all time.Featured Music by Marilyn Manson

Around Comics Ep. 259 - Tryptophan Daydream

Christian Alamy returns to Around Comics for a Black Friday recording that is full of turkey, stuffing and lots of comics talk. Join Chris, Tom, Christian and John Siuntres as they talk about comic book covers, Frankencastle, Batman/Superman, Pulps from America and France and much more.Happy Holidays!Featured Music by PJ Harvey

Around Comics Ep. 258 - Talkin' Comics with Lance Briggs

Around Comics welcomes Bears great, and uber comics fan Lance Briggs to this week's show. Lance is one of the best players in the NFL, and he's also a dedicated comic book fan. Listen in as he talks about growing up with comics and how he's kept his love of comics alive through college and during his NFL career. Find out about his comic book fan site lancescomicworld.com, the character design contest he's hosting and how he's building a great online comics community. After our talk with Lance we discuss our favorite wars, The Avengers & Prisoner TV shows and Andy Jewett's SICKO.GO BEARS!

Around Comics Ep. 257 - Is not Afraid of Sadness

Sal returns to the panel and is joined by Chris, Tom and Patrick Brower at Challengers Comics. Lots of comics talk gets started with The Great Ten, Tony Bedard, Stumptown, Criminal: The Deluxe Edition, Superman: Secret Origin, Wondermark, Iron Man, Cinderella: From Fabletown With Love, and the awesome Blackest Night rings. What's the connection between librarians who hate The League of Extraordinary Gentleman and getting bums to buy your comics? Featured Music by Supergrass!

Around Comics Presents - 3 Story with Matt Kindt E

A new slice of Around Comics is debuted with Around Comics Presents, a singular discussion on an individual graphic novel or collected edition. Our first presentation features Matt Kindt, author of Super Spy and 2 Sisters. Listen in as we delve deep into his latest graphic Novel "3 Story: The Secret History of the Giant man".

Around Comics Ep. 256 - Planetarium

Don Kramer is back, and joins Chris, Tom and Chris Burnham on this week's panel. It's a review filled episode with discussions on Mighty Avengers, Hellboy: The Wild Hunt, Planetary, Fantastic Four, Sugar Shock, Abe Sapien, B.P.R.D. 1947, Superman: Secret Origin and more. Don and Chris talk about breaking through the isolation of being comics artists, working with their inkers and attending conventions. Chris's comics room is complete, and he may or may not have a popular comics writer trapped in his basement.Featured music by Stevie Ray Vaughn

Around Comics Ep. 255 - Kramer vs Kramer

Around Comics welcomes the amazingly talented Don Kramer to this week's panel. Join Chris, Tom and John Siuntres as they talk with Don about about Chicago music hotspots, Bears training cramps, The JSA, Detective Comics, and the soon to be concluded JSA vs Kobra. Writer Eric Trautmann joins in on the discussion and talks about working with Don on JSA vs Kobra as well as his other series The Shield. featured music by Grant Lee Buffalo

Around Comics Ep. 254 - What's an Ohotmu?

Join Chris, Tom, John Siuntres, Christian Alamy and Kyle Bice for an evening of comics conversation and good cheer. Tom loves R.E.B.E.L.S. and you should as well. Chris loves X-Men vs Agents of Atlas, and everyone loves Dr. Voodoo. Other comics discussed include Witchfinder: In service of Angels and The Zombie Survival Guide: Recorded Attacks, The Mighty and Blackest Night: Batman. Was Christian's cable guy an FBI agent? Has Chris had too much to drink? Is Charm another word for Venereal Disease? And what is an Ohotmu? All of these questions and more are answered on this episode of Around Comics.Featured music by Uncle Tupelo

Around Comics Book Club - JLA Avengers

Around Comics Book Club - JLA AvengersThis is the nerdiest book ever produced. And we loved every freaking second of it! Join Chris and Tom for a fun look into the epic crossover event that brought Marvel's mightest heroes and DC's premier super team toe to toe and side by side.

Around Comics Ep. 253 - What we did on vacation

Around Comics returns from vacation with a fully charged round table. Join Chris, Tom, Mike Norton and Christian Alamy for a cornucopia of comics conversation. Christian Alamy is the current inker on DC's Green Lantern. Listen in to hear how comics have brought him from his native land of France to the United States and his current home in Chicago. What was it like growing up as a comics fan in France? What is Wolverine's name in Europe? How much can Doug Mahnke bench press? All of that and more are answered in the post vacation episode of Around Comics.Featured music by The Decemberists

Around Comics Ep. 252 - New Frontiers

Sal Abbinanti returns to Around Comics with his usual wit and charm as he, Chris and Tom talk about the upcoming Windy City Comicon, foreign comic creators and unicorns. David Steinberger joins the conversation to tell us all about Comixology and their new COMICS app for the iPhone.We take the opportunity to thank Brion Salazar for all he's done to make Around Comics what it is. So long and thanks for all the fish Sal!Featured Music by The Reverend Horton Heat

Around Comics Ep. 251 - Greg Rucka is Snow Blind

Greg Rucka returns to Around Comics on the eve of WHITEOUT's theatrical release. Greg joins Chris, Sal, John Siuntres and Josh Elder for an in-depth discussion about the upcoming movie based on he and Steve Lieber's graphic novel.Greg is knee deep in comics and novel work as always. Find out how he's managing to juggle Detective Comics, Action Comics, World of New Krypton, Stumptown and the upcoming Queen & Country novel.Call 503.389.2135 for a great Stumptown easter egg.Featured music by Concrete Blonde

Around Comics Ep. 250 - Underground Competitive Eating

Around Comics reaches 250 episodes of "Nothing better to do on Friday nights". Join Chris, Tom, Sal and special guest Josh Elder for in-depth discussions on Underground Competitive Eating, Comics Wrist, The Golden Age of Role Playing and Ninja Turtles. Voice Mail dominates the second half of the show and concludes with talk about getting comics into schools and how Wood lost 40 lbs. by removing his bling.Featured Music by The Temptations

Around Comics Ep. 249 - Comics Intervention

Tim Seeley and Rick Hanson join Chris and Tom for a revealing episode of Around Comics. Rick has a problem with continuity, Chris is a hoarder, Tom is getting married and Tim can't use a computer. Mixed in with the comic book intervention are reviews of Guardians of the Galaxy, Killer of Demons, HULK and Batman/Superman.Tim has a lot of work coming up including more Hack/Slash and a run on Wildcats. There's more talk about the Hack/Slash movie, Windy City Comicon, blogs, Shazam and why monkeys sell more comics.Featured music by Pixies

Around Comics Ep. 248 - What's a Frisket?

Tony Akins and Paul Mounts join Chris and Tom for an edutaining episode of comics history, comics process and amazing stories. Paul Mounts has been working as a colorist in comics since before digital coloring began. What was it like making the transition from traditional coloring to computer? What book has he worked on almost as long as Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. And what the heck is Frisket? Tony Akins has some great stories of working with Paul in the early year's of Chicago's booming indie scene, and both creators talk about what it's like working with some of their comic book idols. Featured Music by Catherine Wheel

Around Comics - Book Club - Justice League International: Vol. 1

BWAHAHAHA. We take a trip back to the mid 80s for this first edition of the landmark Keith Giffen and J.M. DeMatteis and Kevin Maguire run on Justice League. Chris and Tom (and special call in Mike O.D.) discuss the fun and funny moments of Justice League International Vol. 1.Featured Music by DEVO

Around Comics Ep. 247 - The Master Plan Revealed!

Around Comics welcomes Elliot Serrano, the head guy at Geek To Me, and the writer of Ash Saves Obama! Dave Mathis is here as well to talk about the awesomeness that is Iron Man. Listen in for top picks including Frankenstein's Womb, Light Brigade, War Machine and more! Listener e-mails get us talking about what to do on a trip to Chicago and what novels have made for good comics adaptions. Chris's master plan for stalking creators is revealed as we announce more guests for The Windy City ComiCon.Check our Ash Saves Obama this Wednesday, and read more of Elliot's ramblings at http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/geek-to-me/Featured music by: The Afghan Whigs

Around Comics Ep. 246 - The Last Days of Brett Favre

Comics talk galore in this episode. Join Chris and Tom as they welcome John Siuntres and Kyle Bice for discussions about The Last Days of Animal Man, Fear Agent, Detective Comics, New Avengers, Rasl, Wednesday Comics, JSA, Punisher, Fantastic Four, Horror Comics, The Hero Initiative and much more!Featured Music by Luscious Jackson

Around Comics Ep. 245 - The Dandy Boys

Tom is back from his many travels, and he joins Chris and John for an episode that's jam packed with comics culture discussion. Wizard Wor... er Chicago Comic Con is almost here and we go over the list of guests we're excited to see. San Diego is now in the rear view mirror and this year's Eisner Awards are in the books as well. The panel discusses some of the big announcements and big winners. Listener voice-mails from 3 different countries and Tom's take on Astonishing X-Men.Featured Music by The Flaming Lips

Around Comics Ep. 243 - Blackest Night

An All-Star panel of comics podcasters assemble to discuss the first issue of the the year's most anticipated event. Join Chris and Sal as they welcome Collected Comics Library's Chris Marshall and The Comic Book Queers Stevie D. for an in-depth conversation of DC's Blackest Night. The episode rounds out with e-mail from China, voice mails from Fester and Ted from Indiana and a look at The Punisher, 20th Century Boys and Geek Speed Dating.Featured Music by Beck

Around Comics Ep. 242 - Spreading Rumors

Join Chris, Mike Norton, John Siuntres and Chris Burnham for another week of comics and comics culture conversation. Go Nagai's Getter Robo, The Best of Somin & Kirby, why Kirby is The King, Jeremy Haun, Paul Cornell, Animal Man and much more. We clear out the voice-mail box and hear from listeners and fellow podcasters who have a variety of questions and comments about comics and the comics industry. Featured Music by Son Volt

Around Comics Ep. 241 - Agents of the Unfathomable

Around Comics is back with a double sized issue. Chris is joined by Chris Burnham, Patrick Brower, John Siuntres and special guest Jeff Parker. The panel discusses the local slate of Chicago events and then moves on to talk about Marvel's Dark Reign and the War of Kings story line. We also talk about how Savage Dragon and the new issue of Batman & Robin have delivered the goods on why we love comics.Jeff Parker has been writing some of the most entertaining comics in the industry and we finally catch up with him to talk about Agents of Atlas, Exiles, X-Men: First Class, Mysterious the Unfathomable and the soon to be release Underground.Featured Music by Whiskeytown

Around Comics Ep. 240 - Road Trip

It's SUMMER! Load up the grill, fill up the gas tank, fasten your seat belts and let's take a ride. Join three friends as they drive from Chicago to Milwaukee for an afternoon of baseball, beer, brats and comics talk. Sal, Tom and Chris travel the treacherous span of I-94 and discuss everything from 1970s comic book ads to new comics, favorite Summer movies, Ricky Henderson and lots and lots of fireworks.This episode is dedicated to the memory of our friend Jeremy W. Mullins

Around Comics Ep. 239 - Idiots Rule

It's a special double sized issue! Join Chris, Tom, Sal and special guest Robert K Elder for tons of comics talk and off the track foolishness.Top picks for the week include JSA vs KOBRA, Batman & Robin, Red Robin, Northlanders, R. Crumb and much more. Rick Remender has been one of our favorite creators and guests on Around Comics. He drops by this week to talk about fatherhood, The Punisher, Fear Agent, working for The House of Ideas and hot sweaty bathrooms.Voice Mails, E-Mails, Cricket, Chicken & Ribs, Crazy Irishmen, iTunes Reviews, Conway Tweeter and more.Featured Music by Jane's Addiction

Around Comics Ep. 237 - Masterblasters

Join Chris, Tom, Mike Norton and Tim Seeley as they discuss fandom, drawing the pre 9/11 New York, The Stand, Stan Lee's Super Flu, Hack Slash, the new DC co-features and much more. Chris Samnee joins in on the fun with information about his work on The Mighty and an upcoming Vertigo graphic novel. Listener e-mails, voice mails and more!Featured music by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds

Around Comics Ep. 236 - Are You Worthy?

Classwar by COMX is a series that you may have missed in the early part of the decade. Sal tells us about the new hardcover collection and how it's something you don't want to miss the second time around. Flash: Rebirth is gaining speed (ha ha) and the panel discusses Barry, Hal, Wally and the Black Flash. Chris, Tom and Sal discuss Captain Britain & MI 13, Norman Osborn, Starro, Guardians of the Galaxy, R.E.B.E.L.S., 100 Days of 100 Bullets, Nathan Fillion as Hal Jordan?, Wonder Woman, Secret Six, Secret Warriors and more. Who would you work for, A.I.M. or Hydra? E-mails, Voice Mail, visitors from New York and Texas and much more.Featured music by Cracker

Around Comics Ep. 235 - League of Whistlepigs

Action! Adventure! Romance! This week's episode of Around Comics has everything! Join Chris, Tom and Sal as they talk about Young Liars, Green Lantern Corps, the "un-books" and the many layers of League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. Ghost Rider and Fear Agent artist Tony Moore drops by to tell us about his upcoming Punisher project with Rick Remender and how Karma has inflicted his house with a plague of insects and... Whistlepigs?Sal & Skottie are planning a new podcast. We get salt candy from Sweden. 100 Days of 100 Bullets. French Bulldog violence? Affordable weddings. Tents full of spiders and more.Featured Music from the Ultra Lounge.

Around Comics Ep. 234 - FREE COMICS!

It's the third and final episode from our Free Comic Book Day extravaganza! You've heard from Erik Larsen, you've followed our journey in The Adventures of Luther Arkwright, and now it's time to hear all about 2009's Free Comic Book Day. Join Sal, Tom, Chris and special guest Patrick Brower for a discussion about all of the day's events. Patrick and his business partner Dal run one of the best comic shops around, and he gives some of the trade secrets as to why Challengers Comics + Conversation is the kind of store you wish you had in your neighborhood. The panel discusses this year's FCBD offerings, and for some weird reason has trouble remembering anything from 2008. Listener voice mails and e-mails. A NEW Around Comics Community and things not to do on a podcast wrap up this year's FCBD episode.Featured Music by Frank Black

Around Comics - Book Club - The Adventures of Luther Arkwright

Around Comics Ep. 233 - Erik Larsen's Bacon Wrapped Mummy

The show moves from our regular home of Dark Tower to Studio B of Challengers Comics for Free Comic Book Day. To mark the special day, Around Comics welcomes Image founder and the creator of Savage Dragon, Erik Larsen! From his early work for DC and Marvel through his landmark series Savage Dragon and his position as Image Publisher, Erik Larsen has been one of the most influential and important figures in comics for almost two decades. Listen in for discussions on the formation of Image, the march to Savage Dragon #500, Image United, The Savage Dragon cartoon and Bacon Wrapped Mummies.Featured Music by Shuggie Otis

Around Comics Ep. 232 - Live from The Batcave!

Around Comics gives a little Pre Free Comic Book Day love. Join in as Chris wrestles with the technical aspects of recording a podcast, Tom talks about his love of Kick Ass and Chris Burnham goes to Bean World. Jason Aaron and Tony Moore are making Ghost Rider a must read and the panel waxes poetic about Marvel's Spirit of Vengeance as well as DC's Superman Family of books. Richard Starkings checks in with some updates on Elephantmen and the comic adaptation of Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?. Remember to visit Challengers and Dark Tower Comics on Free Comic Book Day!Featured music by Wilco.

Around Comics Ep. 231 - Found on Filipino ebay

Chris and Tom are joined by returning guest Steve Bryant and newcomer Jim Heffron. Tom has discovered the Walt Simonson Thor, and everyone agrees that they are some of the best comics ever made. Other topics include comic book pricing, color and B&W books, remastering, Neal Adams, Ivory Madison and Huntress: Year One, The Hilary Barta Cast and more.Remember to check out Challengers Comics and Dark Tower Comics during Free Comic Book Day where you can meet Erik Larsen, Mike Norton, Tim Seeley, Tony Akins, Sal Abbinanti, Jeffrey Brown and Chris Burnham.Featured music by Soul Coughing

Around Comics Ep. 230 - Is that your pig?

Chris and Sal welcome artist and international man of mystery Tony Akins to the panel. Fables and Jack of Fables fans get an inside look into the wonderful world of Vertigo's two runaway hit series. Tony talks about the differences between comics work and the commercial advertising world, and how comics keep bringing him back for more. There's a big crossover event starting in Fables this month, and we lay it out for you between stories about contested elections, Brian Bolland's moat, moon pies and Michael Bay's Moby Dick starring Sam Jackson.

Around Comics - Ep 229 - The Rusty Tricycle

Around Comics is back with another week of comic book discussion and recommendations. Chris, Tom and Sal talk about Barry Allen's return to comics in Flash: Rebirth, the new Warren Ellis series Ignition City and a different kind of vampire story in Dead Romeo. Other titles discussed include Jersey Gods, the return of Infinite Horizon and Mark Waid's new series Irredeemable. Ande Parks checks in and gives us an update on the reissue of his first graphic novel Union Station and helps Tom criticize the Bears new quarterback Jay Cutler. Listener voice mails ask what podcast would win a death match, what writer we would pick to be stranded with, and what Marvel characters would be good Black Lanterns.Featuring music by Morphine

Around Comics Ep. 228 - The Tea Bag Effect E

In our extended visit with Atomika creator Sal Abbinanti, the panel tries to talk comics but it never seems to quite stay there. Topics featured this week include Alan Moore's Swamp Thing, Bernie Wrightson's divorce, wedding planning during tax season, Invincible #60 and the problems with rushing through stories, Comic Book Comics by Fred Van Lente and Ryan Dunlavy, the lost history of Sydney Disney, why Greek diners are sacred, Mexican cockroach snipers, Sal on Fire, how many kilos can fit inside a white boy, Thunderbolts #130, the sublime majesty of Deadpool, Sal asks for a favor, we talk with Overman artist Shane White about Seattle and more.Featuring music by Rage Against The Machine.

Around Comics Ep. 227 - When You Need It E

The irreverent Sal Abbinantti returns to Around Comics along with Chris, Tom and Sal to cover every and any topic under the Golden Mexican Sun. Featured topics this week include Wisconsin Pigs, Dead Pigeons, Atomika's relaunch, the Liefeld method of printing comics, advertising in Diamond's catalog, marketing a small press book, dealing with comic shop owners, the fabulous world of baseball card collecting, Raiders of the Last Porn, Todd McFarlane, dealing original Art, listener emails and more. Featuring music by Alice Cooper.

Around Comics - Ep 226 - Funny Misshapen Bodies

On this week's episode of Around Comics, Sal and Chris are joined by John Siuntress and Jeffrey Brown. Jeffrey has a new book out called Funny Misshapen Body, and our favorite Chicago based indie creator drops by to talk about the new book, writer for a book publisher, the differences between auto-bio work and his other works and much more. The panel answers listener e-mails regarding good jumping on points for DC, and more questions about the Kindle.

Around Comics - Ep 225 - IT'S A TRAP! E

Around Comics is back with another action packed episode of comics and comics culture conversation. Eric Houston joins Chris, Tom and Sal as we bring back Top of the Stack and review Iron Fist, Ghost Rider, Daredevil and Zombies Ate the World. Listener e-mails have questions and comments on Wanted, The Hero Initiative, The Roberts, Bendis!, Pancakes, Peeps, Alice Cooper, Thin Lizzy and more. Eric tells us about writing The Comic Book Podcast Companion and why you should order the new book that details some of the best comics podcasts around.

Around Comics - Ep 224 - With Fresh Beats E

Around Comics goes old school as Chris, Tom and Sal catch up on a lot of comics talk. We all love the Omnibus and Absolute editions, but recognize the drawbacks of the format. Listen in for our thoughts on oversized hardcovers, why we love Captain America, Garth Ennis's Battlefields, Thor, Chris Samnee, Alfred and The Outsiders, G.I. Joe, Umbrella Academy, Thunderbolts and Battlestar Galactica. We touch on some of the latest comics news as well as listener e-mails and voicemail. All this and fresh beats from the RZA.

Around Comics - Book Club - True Story Swear to God

Chris and Tom FINALLY get a chance to sit down and talk about the last Book Club selection. Tom Beland's True Story Swear to God is an amazing journey of one man and his real life "swear to God!". For anyone who has ever been in a long distance relationship, felt that love was never going to find them or has been afraid to take a chance, this may be your book. Listen in as Chris and Tom discuss this heart warming and often hilarious book.

Around Comics - Ep 223 - Ninjinx!

Josh Elder joins Chris, Tom and Sal on this week's panel. Listen in for stories about creating Mail Order Ninja, working on The Batman Strikes, Jackie Chan, Newspaper Strips and how to leave your mark as an intern at DC. Sal finds out that his brand new Kindle 2 is already out of date, and Tom starts making plans to wrestle a bear.

Around Comics - Ep 222 - The REAL Kirby Crackle E

Mike Norton drops by to wrap up our discussion about the New York convention and we begin to look forward to the Reed's newly announced Chicago show. We discover that Sean McKeever hates Chris and Sal is just angry. Top of the Stack makes a return with talk about R.E.B.E.L.S., Fantastic Four, Invincible Iron Man, Fables, Bad Dog, Neil Gaiman's Batman and more. Who is the best joker, Heath Ledger or Cesar Romero? What is the advantage of buying dead media? What is the REAL Kirby Crackle? All these questions and more are answered on this week's Around Comics!

Around Comics Ep. 221 - Con Job E

Con stories and comic book talk are the order of the day on this episode of Around Comics. John Siuntres joins Chris, Tom and Sal to discuss announcements from the New York Comic Con and some enjoyable and uncomfortable encounters during the weekend. Our heroes look forward to New Krypton and a new creative team on Fantastic Four. Listener e-mails include questions on how to display a trade and what the panel thinks of the new Robert Kirkman / Todd Mcfarlane project.

Around Comics Ep. 220 - Cereal Killers. E

Sal Abbinanti returns for another week of funny stories from his life in and out of the comics industry. Sal offers his unique perspective on conventions, artistic styles, other creators and... Arena Football? Erik Rose drops by to talk about serial killers and his new book The Roberts from Image Shadowline. Listen in to find out what darkness lies in the hearts of Around Comics as Sal gets us to reveal who we think is overrated in comics.

Around Comics Ep. 219 - It Happens E

The round table gets raw and uncut this week as Sal Abbinanti drops by to tell stories like only he can. Sal has worked with some of the best cover artists in the industry while publishing Atomika - God is Red at Mercury Comics www.mercurycomics.com. Listen in to hear about working with some of the most talented and eccentric creators in comics as well as some truly s#*t your pants funny stories. Listener e-mails get the panel talking about Fell, Blacksad, Nova, Guardians of the Galaxy and some of the most bizarre comic themed tattoos we've ever seen.

Around Comics Ep. 218 - Because We Must! E

Art Baltazar returns for another laugh filled episode. Listen in for stories about making it as a cartoonist, parenthood and big fuzzy slippers. The panel discusses several of the books they've been reading including I Kill Giants, RASL, Final Crisis, Green Lantern Corps, Young Liars, Umbrella Academy, Hatter M & more.

Around Comics Ep. 217 - Aw Yeah Man! E

It's COLD in Chicago, but this week Around Comics is joined by the warm personality of Art Baltazar. Art is one half of the creative team responsible for bringing us DC's Tiny Titans. Listen in to hear about Art's experiences on the convention circuit and how he came to be the artist of DC's hottest book for young readers. The episode is full of laughs, inspirational moments and a perfect example of Chris's middle-aged whiteness.

Around Comics Ep. 216 - Get Your Geek On!

The end of the holidays are finally here and Around Comics ushers in the new year with an all new panel. Join Chris as he welcomes Wordballoon's John Siuntres, Scott Cederlund from Wednesday's Haul and artist extrordinair Chris Burnham. It's a good old fashioned geekfest as the panel discusses a wide range of comics culture topics and what they are looking forward to in 2009.

Around Comics Ep. 215 - Done with Computers & Real Blood. E

A New Year means an all new panel for Around Comics. Some of our favorite past guests return for a discussion about comic books through the years. Join Chris as he welcomes Don Glut, Hilary Barta and Tim Seeley. Listen in to hear the panel's take on the perception of comics as a profession from the late sixties to today and comic based movies from Don's amateur work to the latest big budget blockbusters.

2008

Dec 28, 2008

Around Comics Ep. 214 - Unscrewed and The Army of Darkness E

Around Comics welcomes Tom Stillwell and Elliot Serrano to the panel this week. Tom is the owner and operator of Spinner Rack Comics, a comics company dedicated to all ages and kid friendly comics. He is also the President of Unscrewed, an organization that helps educate and protect creators from fraudulent practices in the comics industry. Elliot is the writer of It's Geek to Me, an article in the Chicago Tribune's Red Eye newspaper. He is also bringing you the further adventures of Zena: Warrior Princes and Ash in the Dynamite series Zena vs. Army of Darkness. Happy New Year!

Around Comics Ep. 213 - Challengers of the Well Known E

Around Comics brings you one more episode from Challengers Comics + Conversation. Challengers co-owner Dal jumps in for a discussion about opening a new comic shop in Chicago and everything they did to make Challengers a great store. Wizard Magazine offers up their Best of 2008 lists and we talk about some of their picks and throw in our own. Listen in to find out who our favorite creators and what our favorite books of 2008 were.

Around Comics Ep. 212 - James Robinson and Jim Beam E

In what is sure to become an Around Comics instant classic, we welcome James Robinson to the roundtable. James answers questions about Starman, Comic Book Villains, The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, Leave It To Chance, Archie Goodwin, The Justice League and much more. Happy Holidays from everyone at Around Comics!

Around Comics Ep. 211 - Spam & Eggs E

With Chris spreading Holiday Cheer, Sal, Tom, Mike and Hank turn on the mics and answer (heckle) listener emails. Topics that come up include The Simpsons, Showcase and Essentials that we like, Justice League Unlimited, Mark Hamill's wardrobe, The Flash t.v. series, Jonathan Hickman's various works, Frank Miller Presents Giligan's Island, Manimal, and other ridiculous topics. Somewhere in between we figure out the meaning to Batman R.I.P., how to fix DC comics, and what it looks like inside Grant Morrison's testicles. Don't forget to tune in next week as we welcome Special Guest James Robinson.

Around Comics Ep. 210 - French Milk and Sick Boys E

It's a Super Sized episode as AC packs two shows in one. Join us as we welcome Lucy Knisley to the panel to discuss her new graphic novel French Milk, an artists journal about a mother and daughter's month long trip to Paris. Then we mix up the panel to talk about more comics culture with Sal, Chris, John Siuntres and Mike Norton. Find out what's coming up in the pages of Green Arrow / Black Canary and listen in for thoughts on Quantum of Solace, Batman: Murder at Wayne Manor, the New Krypton story line, Crazy Vince B, Trinity, The Mammoth Book of Crime Comics and more.HAPPY HOLIDAYS from everyone at Around Comics!

Don Glut is back in Chicago for a screening of his new movie, and we were lucky enough to have him drop by the comic shop to chat with us. Join Chris and Sal as they learn about Don's early years as a comics fan, more about The Masters of the Universe, writing the novelization of The Empire Strikes Back and how Moon Knight may not exist if it wasn't for his career in comics.

Around Comics Ep. 208 - Pinball Honeypot E

Listener e-mails are the theme of the show. Join Chris, Tom, Sal, Mike and Hank as we tackle a variety of topics. What comics are good for younger readers? Why would somebody skip town with a store full of pinball machines? Who picks the music on the show? Where did Sal get his patriotic nunchucks? All of that and a lot more comic book talk.

Around Comics Ep. 207 - Back In The Saddle E

The gang is back together. The Windy City Comicon is in the books and we have over a month of comics to talk about. Join Chris, Tom, Sal, Mike and Hank for a good old fashioned episode of Around Comics. Find out our thoughts on Top 10, Freak Angels, The United States Constitution - A Graphic Adaptation, Trinity, Rage of the Red Lanterns and more. We start to clear out the e-mail box and answer your questions. Sal tells us about his new involvement in local politics and a lost day at the greatest sports bar ever. Tom points out why Chris may not have great recollection.Thanks again to everyone that came to the Windy City Comicon!

Around Comcis Ep. 206.5 - A Break in the Action E

After a fantastic turnout for The Windy City Comicon we are taking a little break. NO WORRIES! We will be back in two weeks with more of the comics and comics culture conversation we bring you. Thank you to everyone that made it to the WCCC! Have a great two weeks and we will talk to you then.Remember to Vote!

Around Comics Ep. 206 - Tim Seeley gets Animated. E

Chris and Sal are joined by John Siuntres and comics creator Tim Seeley. Tim explains the legal situation of Hack Slash and it's upcoming cross over with a the Re-Animator. Tim talks about the trademark issues, his love of classic horror films and the future of Hack Slash. Tim also clues us in on his upcoming work on Marvel's New Exiles. Will the "X-Effect" be anything like working on G.I. Joe, The Transformers or Forgotten Realms? John tells us about his experience talking with Dave Gibbons and the buzz about The Watchmen film. This is the last episode before The Windy City Comicon and we have a few announcements before the big day hits on Oct. 25th. Visit www.windycitycomicon.com for more information. Remember to e-mail the show with your comic book thoughts and questions at info@aroundcomics.com

Around Comics Ep. 205 - Donuts and Beer E

Around Comics is back with tons of comics talk and election updates! Tim Seeley and Hank join Chris and Sal on this week's action packed panel. Sal talks about Four Eyes from Image and the new Deadpool. Hank explains how Joe Kelly got him into comics. Tim loves the new Secret Six and the panel agrees with him. Hank chooses All-Star Superman as his top pick, and the panel discusses it's place in comics history. Chris talks up the latest Batman Confidential and how Mike Perkins is knocking it out of the park with his art on The Stand. Sal has a story about his sister cursing the Chicago Cubs, and then asks Hank why people like the Twilight series. Remember to make your plans for The Windy City Comicon! www.windycitycomicon.com

Around Comics Ep. 204 - Around Elvira E

Episode 204Chris and Tom are joined by Hilary Barta and Branden on an episode that ranges from top comic books picks to Burt Lancaster and beyond. The panel talks about Captain America, I Kill Giants, Iron Fist, Longshot and more.

Around Comics - Ep 203 - Politics and Comics E

Election Day is approaching and Around Comics is talking politics. Chris and Tom are joined by small press publisher Sarah Becan and comics creator Hilary Barta in a discussion about politics in comics and other entertainment media. Politics have been a part of comics since their inception. We talk about their influence in Captain America, Pogo, Hulk, Howard the Duck, small press comics, mainstream comics and more.Continue the conversation at www.aroundcomics.com on our forum, and don't forget to check out Chicago's finest comics convention The Windy City Comicon at www.windycitycomicon.com

Around Comics Ep. 202 - The Phantom Panel E

The Panel discusses a ton of stuff this week. New internet restrictions, Green Lantern, Vertigo, The Phantom Stranger, Last Will & Testament, writing teams, The Windy City Comicon and much much more. Remember to make your plans to attend The Windy City Comicon. Visit www.windycitycomicon.com for more information.

Around Comics Ep. 201 - Grant Morrison Makes Us Crazy E

The gang is all together. Join Chris, Tom, Sal, John and Eric from CBQ for an evening of comics talk in an actual comics shop. The panel discusses Fables, The Sinestro Corps War and The New Secret Six. The panel erupts into chaos as we realize Grant Morrison makes us crazy. We check in with Jason Howard, the artist of The Astounding Wolfman and hear about drawing a book in the Invinceverse and working with Robert Kirkman. Listen in for all of that and more announcements about The Windy City ComiCon.

Around Comics Episode 200 - The Process

Around Comics reaches it's 200th episode. Join Chris & Tom as they welcome comic book professionals Hilary Barta, Steve Bryant and Jason Millet to the panel. We have a panel filled with creators that write, pencil, ink and color, os it's a perfect opportunity to talk about the actual process of making comics. It's an insiders look at how certain aspects of the comics we love are created and that process has changed over the years. The panel also discusses the use of photo references, favorite and not so favorite artists, and much more.Remember to check out Chicago's ONLY Comic Book Convention, The Windy City ComiCon at www.windycitycomicon.com

Around Comics Ep. 199 - Knee Shot! E

Around Comics is back with another round of comic suggestions and general comics goodness. Join Chris, Tom, John Siuntres, Steve Bryant and Chris Burnham for discussions on Batman/Superman, Jack Staff, Legion of Three Worlds, Brit and much more. Also tune in for a BIG announcement about The Windy City ComiCon. Check out more at www.windycitycomicon.com

Around Comics - Book Club - Black Hole E

The two year tease is over. Chris and Tom FINALLY talk about the amazing Black Hole by Charles Burns. It's an episode detailing our thoughts and opinions about teenagers, sex, drugs and... mutations. Find out who Tom's favorite character is and how Chris may or may not have killed people in a coal mine.

Around Comics Ep. 197 - Line Change! E

In the Hockey equivalent of a comics podcast, Around Comics changes lineups to address a series of industry topics. Robert Kirkman's message to the comics industry is the center of this conversation that touches on creator owned projects, the goals of aspiring creators, the movie and bookseller influence, new readers, women in comics and much more. Join Chris Neseman, John Siuntres and a group of special guests from every level of the comics world including Hilary Barta, Mike Norton, Tim Seeley, Andrew Kudelka and Jenny Frison for an informative and entertaining discussion. Also, Erik Rose drops by to tell us about his new series from Image called The Roberts. Remember you can continue the conversation on our forums at www.aroundcomics.com.

Around Comics Ep. 196 - Take On Me

Join us for another action packed episode of comics and comics culture conversation. John Siuntres and Mike Norton are back with Chri, Sal and Tom to talk about houseless individuals, G4's coverage of San Diego, new video games, Hunter S Thompson and of course, lots and lots of comics. It's over an hour of some good ole fashioned Around Comics.

Around Comics Ep. 195 - Canadian Bacon E

The band is back together as Sal returns to a packed panel including Chris, Tom, Mike Norton, and Canadian guest Scott Hearn. It's an hour and a half filled with tons of comics talk, funny stories, and an extended conversation with artist Mike Mayhew.You can continue the conversation on our forum at www.aroundcomics.comYou can also find more of Tom on Tom vs The JLA, and more of Chris on 11 O'Clock Comics.

Around Comics Ep. 194 - Road Trip E

Chris and Tom are road tripping to Milwaukee for a baseball game and want you to ride along with them. It's a trip filled with talk about growing up with comics and what comics they're reading now. The Dark Knight gets some talk as well as some of the happenings in San Diego and what we can look forward to in the next year with Flash: Rebirth, B.P.R.D. 1947, Thunderbolts, new hardcovers for Swamp Thing and more. Sprinkle in some traveling music and roadside attractions and you've got a fun hour of Road Tripping, Around Comics style.

Around Comics Ep. 193 - What If...? E

Around Comics welcomes Donald Glut to the show to talk about his career as a film maker and comic book scribe. Comic fans are most familiar with his work on Marvel's classic What If...? series, but his amateur films of the 50s and 60s were influential to an entire generation of film makers as well. Listen in to hear stories about jumping out of cars, death rays from above, exploding bags of gasoline and more. Chris, Tom and the CBQ's Stevie D. spend a fun evening with the innovative and entertaining Donald F. Glut.We'll be back again next week with an all new Around Comics, but in the meantime you can also check out Tom Vs. JLA at tomvsjla.libsyn.com Chris on 11 O'Clock Comics at bullpenbulletins.libsyn.com and Skottie is back with The Devil and Me at http://devilandme.com

Around Comics Ep. 192 - Tuna Pound Cake E

Around Comics gets back to our home at Dark Tower for a Giant Sized episode with tons of random talk. Join Chris, Tom, Dave Wachter, Stevie D, and Jeffery Brown as they discuss their Top of the Stack picks and more. We check in with writer Simon Oliver and get a nice scoop about his next project. The show wraps with lots of movie, TV and comics talk.

Around Comics Ep. 191 - Book of the Month - Starman Omnibus Vol. 1 E

Around Comics is back with our first Book of the Month episode. Join Chris and Tom as they welcome Sean Whelan of Raging Bullets and Matt Kramer of The Shade's Journal aboard to discuss the first 17 issues of Starman. If you were like many of us that consider the 90s as a down time for comics, you may want to reconsider and dive into Starman, one of the hidden gems of the decade.We'll be back again next week with an all new Around Comics, but in the meantime you can also check out Tom Vs. JLA at tomvsjla.libsyn.com Chris on 11 O'Clock Comics at bullpenbulletins.libsyn.com and Skottie is back with The Devil and Me at http://devilandme.com

Around Comics Ep. 190 - Podcasting Panel E

Around Comics is back with a special presentation from Wizard World Chicago. Listen to the first Comic Book Podcasting Panel hosted at Wizard's Chicago show. The panel was moderated by Eisner Award winning writer Sean McKeever, and included Brian Salazar of Around Comics, Vince Bonavoglia of 11 O'Clock Comics, Scott Cederlund of Wednesday's Haul, John Siuntres of Wordballoon, Stevie D. of Comic Book Queers, Steven Schuler of Alter Ego, Chris Marshall of Collected Comics Library and Sean Whelan of Raging Bullets. If you weren't able to attend the convention or the panel, here's your chance to hear what eight of comics podcasting's finest have to say about the medium.We'll be back again next week with an all new Around Comics, but in the meantime you can also check out Tom Vs. JLA at tomvsjla.libsyn.com Chris on 11 O'Clock Comics at bullpenbulletins.libsyn.com and Skottie is back with The Devil and Me at http://devilandme.com

Around Comics Ep. 189 - 90% Kirby E

Around Comics is back with Chris, Tom, Sal and Mike Norton. Tom comes up with the newest celebrity collectible. Sal talks up the milestone of Invincible's 50th issue and the new continuity of Image. Listener email has the panel talking about animated goodness and what creators wow us with their ability to master different styles. Wizard World Chicago is our next stop on the convention circuit. If you're at the show drop by the Comic Book Podcasting Panel on Friday. EXCELSIOR!Remember you can check out Tom Vs. JLA at tomvsjla.libsyn.com Chris on 11 O'Clock Comics at bullpenbulletins.libsyn.com and Skottie Young's The Devil and Me at http://devilandme.com

Around Comics Ep. 188 - You Can't Stop Us E

Around Comics is back with another episode of THRILLS, SPILLS and Top of the Stack recommendations including The 12, Amazing Spider-Man, Locke & Key and Action Comics. Mike Norton joins Chris, Tom and Sal for an hour of good old fashioned comics talk including a phone call with writer Will Pfeifer.We'll be back again next week with an all new Around Comics, but in the meantime you can also check out Tom Vs. JLA at tomvsjla.libsyn.com Chris on 11 O'Clock Comics at bullpenbulletins.libsyn.com and Skottie is back with The Devil and Me at http://devilandme.com

Around Comics Ep. 187 - Len Kody & Jenny Frison E

Around Comics steps back in time to 1968 with writer Len Kody and artist Jenny Frison to talk about their new project Chicago 1968. It's an episode filled with interesting historical facts and explanations on how those facts are used in a true fiction series. Len also lets us know about his other upcoming project CISCO KID vs. WYATT EARP with Eric J. John Siuntres drops by halfway through to takeover for Tom and we wrap up with discussions about internet reviewers, Wonder Woman and Genre Comics.Check out Len's work including Chicago 1968 at www.lenkody.comWe'll be back again next week with an all new Around Comics, but in the meantime you can also check out Tom Vs. JLA at tomvsjla.libsyn.com Chris on 11 O'Clock Comics at bullpenbulletins.libsyn.com and Skottie is back with The Devil and Me at http://devilandme.com

Around Comics Ep. 186 - A Damned Good Time E

This week Chris and Tom are joined on the panel by Len Cody and Hank! Top of the Stack recommendations include Action Comics, 1985, Batman: Nine Lives and Kick Ass. We check in with writer Cullen Bunn and find out about The Damned hitting the big screen and the future of one of our favorite books. Tom wants to know what your best Bigfoot story is, and Hank talks about being a new comics fan.

Around Comics Ep. 185 - W.W.T.S.D. E

Around Comics returns to the friendly confines of Chicago and gets right back in the groove with Top of the Stack recommendations including Young Liars, Glamourpuss, Guardians of the Galaxy and Batman Confidential. Join Sal, Chris and Tom as we welcome Eric Houston to the panel and find out how he started writing for Back Issue magazine. Athena Voltair's artist and writer Steve Bryant checks in and talks about the great summer movie schedule and all things pulp.

Around Comics Ep. 184 - Emerald City ComiCon pt. III E

It's a special double sized episode from Seattle's Emerald City ComiCon! The gang finishes up their coverage of the convention. Listen in for conversations with Greg Rucka, Shane White, Chris Moreno, Jeffery Brown, Adriana Ferguson, Mark Sable and more!Check back next Monday as we return to Chicago and Dark Tower Comics.

Around Comics Ep. 183 - Emerald City ComiCon pt. II E

Our coverage of the Emerald City ComiCon rolls on! Join Chris, Sal and Tom as they talk with some of the comics industry's best and brightest. DC's Dan DiDio drops by to energize the table with his trademark excitement and passion for comics and DC Nation. Richard Starkings, Comicraft's First Tiger and the creative force behind The Elephantmen shows why he is one of our favorite guests in a conversation about conventions, war movies, morality and gun wielding Hippos. Sal has a chat with the Suicide Girls about all things pierced and tattooed. We wrap things up with Tom and Josh from iFanboy talking with rising star and author of B.P.R.D. 1946, Josh Dysart.Check back on Monday for more interviews, con stories and general comics goodness as we wrap up our coverage from The Emerald City!

Around Comics Ep. 182 - Emerald City ComiCon pt. I E

This week we're coming to you from the floor of the Emerald City ComiCon! Join Chris, Sal, Tom and a cast of thousands as they cover all of the happenings of the premier comic convention of the Pacific Northwest. Top of the Stack is back with recommendations on 100 Bullets, Rann Thanagar: Holy War, Miracle Man, Action Comics, Countdown to Mystery, Pretty Baby Machine, House of Mystery and more. The iFanboys sit in and talk about their con experience before we're invaded by the local 501st Seattle Regiment. Who knew that Stormtroopers were so nice?Check back this week for more interviews, con stories and general comics goodness from The Emerald City!

Around Comics Ep. 181 - Con Men E

Join in as we continue the conversation from last week's return episode. Tom, Chris, John Siuntres and Chris Burnham talk about the recent New York Comic Convention and the build up to Iron Man. Chris caught up with comics legend Neal Adams to chat about the developments in the Superman case and the perils of creator owned work. The panel discusses his thoughts as well as the future of Krypton's last son. As Final Crisis approaches, the panel gives their thoughts on Countdown and why Trinity may be getting off on the right foot. Tom wraps things up by putting a bounty on The Sentry's head.Remember to come back next week for Emerald City Comicon highlights and interviews!

Around Comics Ep. 180 - The Return

Around Comics returns with an all new episode from Chicago. Join Tom, Chris, Mark and Nixon's Pals artist Chris Burnham. Top of the Stack reviews include Fun Home, Nixon's Pals, She-Hulk and JSA Classified. After being attacked by the Dark Tower guard dog, John Siuntres drops by to reflect on the New York Con and talk Showcases.

Around Comics Ep. 179 - James Kochalka

Join Professor Jeremy Mullins and some of his graduate students from the Savannah College of Art & Design as they talk to indie and journal comics legend James Kochalka! The crew gets Kochalka to talk about his process and his views on comics in addition to writing and singing a brand new song, live, right on on the spot! Make sure to download this their final, yet epic, fill-in feature.Remember to check back at the end of April for all new episodes of Around Comics from the Chicago crew. Thanks to everyone at SCAD for keeping the podways filled with comic talk!

Around Comics Ep. 178 - S.C.A.D. Attacks E

The SCADs are back. Join Professor Jeremy Mullins and some of his graduate students from the Savannah College of Art & Design as they cover some of the top headlines in the world of comic book news and give their recommendations in Top of the Stack. Listen in as Jeremy recounts his rollerblade and homeless horror stories, a dramatic reading of one of comics up-and-coming writers, and much much more.

Around Comics Ep. 177 - Cameron Stewart E

The crew from the Savannah College of Art & Design continue their stint as star fill-in artists. This week they talk with artist Cameron Stewart about a wide variety of topics. Find out Stewart's amazing story of how Grant Morrison helped him break into the industry. What is the approach he takes when starting a new project? What are the differences between working with Ed Brubaker, Grant Morrison and Jason Aaron? How do you get a gig doing art for a Canadian teen pop star? Find out the answers to these questions and more as the SCAD crew saves us from another week of Around Comics silence.

Around Comics Ep. 176 - S.C.A.D. Scabs E

On this special-guest episode, join Professor Jeremy Mullins and some of his graduate students from the Savannah College of Art & Design as they break it down old-school to give us a very Bizarro-world rendition of Around Comics. Listen in as the roundtable takes us in the wayback machine and does their best AC impression. First they check in with Wire2Wire Comic Book News for the recent comic headlines. Then the panel goes over their Top of the Stack picks. Finally they wrap things up with a few listener emails.

Around Comics Ep. 175 - The Club: Feb 2008

On our final Club Episode for awhile, our heroes Chris, Sal and Tom discuss Sal's picks. First up they talk about the CD 'Static Age' by The Misfits and how it should have been better remembered. Then the guys get into the movie - SLC Punk! Everybody loved the film and we talk at length to its charms. Finally, we finish up with Dave Gibbons 'The Originals'.

Around Comics Ep. 174 - Old & Busted E

On another ad-hoc episode, our heroes Tom, Skottie and Sal have no idea what they are going to talk about, yet somehow they do it for over an hour anyway, First up, we discuss Top of the Stack picks including Northlanders #3, Popgun Vol. 1, Josh Howard's Sasquatch Anthology, and Skottie talks about Jumpers and Tunnels (big boy books). Meanwhile...we turn Brian Wood gay, Skottie announces his return to the Southern Hotness, we bitch about the horrible winter conditions in Chicago, we finally admit to the world that Skottie has been controlling us with his mind. We also read some emails that bring up various topics including british accents, Lost, Oz, New X-Men, Messiah Complex, Canadian Cuisine, One More Day fallout, we get confused by math, and a reappearance of the Wisconsin Werewolves.

Around Comics Ep. 173 - Spillover E

On this spill-over episode Sal cuts together some clips from a previous recording sessions. First up, the crew gets hungry as Sal invents the next great redneck snack food, Skottie introduces us to Cowboy Cool-Beans, we discuss Chicago's utter lack of good seafood, we insult Canada...again, especially the pizza, Chris grosses us out with his favorite sandwich and other culinary delights. Later, Skottie spews forth his hatred of comic book trailers, we watch the Doomsday trailer and try and determine if it's supposed to be a joke, Tom gets even more disappointed with the History Channel, we talk about Cloverfield, we talk about Heath Ledger, Amy Winehouse and other celebrities, and finish up with Chris' Direct TV nightmare.

Around Comics Ep. 172 - Rick Remender Returns

Around Comics welcomes Rick Remender. The multi-talented creator of Fear Agent, Strange Girl, Sea of Red, Sorrow, The End League and more talks about his past and ongoing projects. The Quiet! Panelologists At Work continue their A to Z of British comics and Jeremy Mullins returns with a new web comics recommendation. Tom Katers take a call from a listener about sidekicks in this week's Answer Man segment, and we get you ready for the week ahead with new collected and single issue releases.Timestamp:03:26 - Rick Remender44:42 - A to Z British Comics - http://panelologists.com/52:10 - Answer Man01:00:44 - Web Comics 52:19 - Gerry Duggan01:03:55 - New Collected Releases - http://www.collectedcomicslibrary.com/01:10:36 - New Single Issue Releases

Around Comics Ep. 171 - Cat Bites Dog E

This week, on another roundtable, our heroes Chris, Tom, Sal and Skottie, jump the Rio Grande and get in some trouble. On Part I of this extra-long roundtable, the panel discusses their top of the stack picks including Alice in Sunderland by Bryan Talbot, Fell Vol. 1, Punisher Max Vol. 1, Nextwave: Agents of HATE Vol. 1, and Superman Confidential #11. Meanwhile...we talk a little bit about Skottie's X-Men project, driving and fighting bobcats, why we own pitbulls, if Absinthe without mercury is worth drinking, how Wendy's makes no sense, why Chris loves Manga, punching Akira with a fistful of liberty, the history of the McDonald's characters, and we finish up with some emails. Don't forget to check back next week to hear part II of this episode.

Around Comics Ep. 170 - Eric Powell, Gerry Duggan & more.

Around Comics welcomes Eric Powell, the creator of The Goon. Join us for a conversation about his new graphic novel, dog attacks and knives to the eye. Later in the program we catch up with Gerry Duggan to talk about the WGA strike and his new project with Phil Noto called The Infinite Horizon. The Quiet! Panelologists At Work continue their A to Z of British comics and Jeremy Mullins fights through a cold to tell us about a new web comics find. Tom Katers takes calls from listeners and explains some of the long history of The Legion. Will Pfeifer talks DVDs and we get you ready for the week ahead with new collected and single issue releases.Timestamp:02:07 - Eric Powell28:24 - A to Z British Comics - http://panelologists.com/33:23 - Web Comics - http://www.lucid-tv.com/37:45 - Answer Man49:04 - Will Pfeifer on DVDs52:19 - Gerry Duggan01:22:29 - New Collected Releases - http://www.collectedcomicslibrary.com/01:27:08 - New Single Issue Releases

Around Comics Ep. 169 - One Jack Off E

On a three-wheeled show, our heroes Chris, Sal and Skottie lament the absence of Tom, but soldier on. First up, things get weird as Sal takes over the show and makes Chris choose only one Top of the Stack pick. He chose Resurrection #01, while Skottie talked Punisher Max Vol. 1 HC, and Sal talks the Madrox HC. Meanwhile...we talk a little X-Men Messiah Complex, whose New X-Men are better Chris Bachalo's or Skottie's, whether comic book publishers should be held accountable by retailers, internet download taxes, Quebecor's woes, the naked Wonder Woman tragedy, Mac Keynote announcements, Comanche Moon, more Steve Zahn love, more The Wire love, we rip on every other major city in America and finish up talking a little about Skottie's upcoming project.

Around Comics Ep. 168 - Mark Sable & Robbi Rodriguez E

Around Comics welcomes the creative team of Image Comics new original graphic novel Hazed. Writer Mark Sable and artist Robbi Rodriguez have created a dark and humorous tale of college societies in the vein of Heathers and Mean Girls that is full of bulimic goodness. Sal goes over the past week's top stories in Wire 2 Wire Comics News, The Quiet! Panelologists At Work continue their A to Z of British comics and Jeremy Mullins tells us about a Web Comic from one of our favorite artists. Despite the Packers lose,Tom Katers is back as the Answer Man to shed some light on the magic of Green Lantern. Will Pfeifer talks DVDs and we get you ready for the week ahead with new collected and single issue releases.

Around Comics Ep. 167 - Mobius Strip E

This week, our heroes Chris, Tom, Skottie nd Sal get caught in a mobius strip. First up, in Top of the Stack we talk First in Space, Astronaut Dad #01, The Escapists Hardcover, The Goon #20, The Twelve #01, Shadowpact vol. #01 and The End League #01. Meanwhile...We hear a little from John Siuntres, we find out the winners and losers from the new years resolution competition, comic book tattoos, the silliness of burning comics, Brand New Day, the soft reboot of Marvel, we make fun of Chris' new segment 'Books of Note', why we hate ourselves for liking Dexter, why The Wire hasn't won an Emmy, The History of Rock N' Roll documentary, E-book readers, Robert Heinlein's Starship Troopers, why the Discovery Channel believes in Bigfoot and why Tom hates them for it, and we finish up talking about Chris' new 70's-crappy-movie fascination and a few emails.

Around Comics Ep. 166 - B. Clay Moore and Seth Peck

Around Comics welcomes the writing team of the new Image
series 76. B Clay Moore and Seth Peck give us insight into the Double Feature
style comic that breaks out the bell bottoms and muscle cars in 1976 New York and LA. We
cover Clay and Seth's other works including Hawaiian Dick, Superman
Confidential, JSA Classified and Sorrow. Sal goes over the past week's top
stories in Wire 2 Wire Comics News, The Quiet! Panelologists At Work continue
their A to Z of British comics and Jeremy Mullins has a Web Comic suggestion
that would make your Mom question her parenting skills. Tom Katers is back as the Answer Man, Will
Pfeifer talks DVDs, John Mayo looks inside Diamonds top 300 and we get you
ready for the week ahead with new collected and single issue releases.

Around Comics Ep. 165 - Dec. Club Discussion E

On
this month's "The Club? Episode, our heroes go over Tom's picks. Tom, Chris, Sal
and Skottie discuss the pros and cons of the Badly Drawn Boy CD, Hour of the
Bewilderbeast. Find out if it was too pussy for Skottie, and why Sensitive Tom
loved it. Next listen in as we discuss the collected edition of “WE3? from
Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely, and find out which one of us cried at the
end. Then the boys go over the comedy “Safe Men? starring Paul Giamatti, Sam
Rockwell and Steve Zahn. Finally, we
wrap things up with listener voicemails, emails and a few announcements.

Around Comics Ep. 164 - Jay Faerber

Around
Comics welcomes the writer of Noble Causes and Dynamo 5. Listen in to find out
about the Soap Opera meets Super Powers world that Jay has created and how much
fun comics can be when you don't have to keep up with mega events. Jay also has
a relatively new series called Dynamo 5 on stands and we dive into the world of
the five teenagers with the shared powers of their dead father Captain Dynamo.
Long time Noble Causes fans get a sneak peak of the 5 years later jumping on
point due in March. Sal goes over the past week's top stories in Wire 2 Wire
Comics News, The Quiet! Panelologists At Work continue their A to Z of British
comics and Jeremy Mullins has a Web Comic suggestion sure to bring out your
inner Super F**ker. Tom Katers is back
as the Answer Man, Will Pfeifer talks DVDs, Jarrett Willaims has a new Manga
recommendation and we get you ready for the week ahead with new collected and
single issue releases.

Around Comics Ep. 163 - New Year with Ande Parks E

Our heroes start off the New Year with a visit from writer, inker and longtime freind of the program Ande Parks. Ande joins Chris, Sal and Skottie as we take a look at the year that was, and what we're looking forward to in 2008. We go over some of our favorite books from 2007 including Daredevil, Iron-Fist, The Spirit, Criminal, Green Lantern, and others, and talk with both Ande and Skottie about their favorite projects and what they are working on next. Later, we talk about what we'd like to see happen in 2008 and give our thoughts on how comics can improve. Meanwhile...We find out what good stuff everyone got for Christmas, how to properly prepare a plate of cookies for Santa, what kids shows and toys are outlawed in the Parks household, Ande taste-tests various airplane bottles of booze, why Ande is very much like Prince, and more.Happy New Year.

2007

Dec 31, 2007

Around Comics Ep. 162 - Alex Ross

Around Comics welcomes comics superstar Alex Ross. Listen in for details on new projects including SUPERPOWERS from Dynamite and the Avengers/Invaders series coming out from Marvel. Hear Alex's thoughts on characters like Green Lantern, Wally West, Batman, Aquaman and more. Find out what goes into designing and redesigning classic golden age costumes, and why Challenge of the Superfriends is still cool. Sal keeps us up to date in Wire2Wire Comics News and the Quiet! Panelologists At Work chaps continue their A to Z of British comics. Jeremy Mullins covers Web comics and Will Pfeiffer runs down his top DVDs of 2007. Tom's Answer Man segment clears up some past questions then tackles Constantine. We also get you ready for the week ahead with new collected and single issue releases.Happy New Year!Timestamp:02:28 - Alex Ross47:14 - Wire2Wire Comics News52:58 - Answer Man59:29 - A to Z British Comics - http://panelologists.com/01:03:28 - Pfeifer on DVDs - http://willpfeifer.com/01:07:14 - Web Comics - http://www.drewweing.com/01:10:08 - New Collected Releases - http://www.collectedcomicslibrary.com/01:14:33 - New Single Issue Releases

Around Comics Ep. 161 - Holiday Hangover E

This week, our Heroes of the Holidays Tom, Skottie, Sal, Chris, Norton and Hank get together to spread some cheer. We're full of the Christmas Spirit, and a bunch of small bottles of booze. In Top of the Stack, Chris leads us on a marathon of Stackables, including The Trial of Captain Sweeto and Other Stories: A Collection of the Comic Strips of the Perry Bible Fellowship, The Overman #1, The Goon: Chinatown, Green Lantern #25, Popgun Vol. 1, and The Infinite Horizon #1. Meanwhile...We find all the reasons why Sal has not finished reading I Am Legend, how old Tom's girlfriend really is, how The Golden Compass turned Skottie into a Baby Jesus Killer, whether or not Nick Hornby can write skaters and why Tony Hawk is not relevant, how a sixteen year old may react to getting a girl pregnant, the War of Iraqi Aggression and Sal's defense of liberty, we give thanks for the cards and gifts we received, we call Braxton to wish him well, and we finish off the show by reading emails.

Around Comics Christmas Special E

A Comics Christmas CarolThe Around Comics Players present a modern interpretation of the classic Charles Dickens tale. Join us as we tell the tae of old Skottie McScrooge as he encounters the Ghosts of Comics Past, Present and Future on the road to salvation.A Comics Christmas CarolWith apologies to Charles DickensPresented by the Around Comics PlayersChris Neseman, Thomas Katers, Skottie Young, Mike Norton, Mark Beatty, Dave Wachter, Hank the Tank, Casey McCauley and Sal.Happy Holidays to all!

Around Comics Ep. 160 - Roy Thomas pt. II E

Around Comics - The Comic Book Culture Podcast Ep. 160Our Month of Heroes with The Comics Podcast Network and The Hero Initiative concludes with part 2 of our conversation with Roy Thomas. Tom and Chris talk with the comics legend about X-Men, Invaders, Anthem and much more. The Quiet! Panelologists At Work continue their A to Z of British comics. Jeremy Mullins has a Web Comic suggestion sure to get you in trouble and Tom's Answer Man segment takes a swing at US Agent. We also get you ready for the week ahead with new collected and single issue releases.Timestamp:04:01 - Roy Thomas25:03 - Wire2Wire Comics News30:53 - A to Z British Comics - http://panelologists.com/36:37 - Web Comics - http://www.nowheregirl.com/40:19 - John Mayo Trades Report - http://www.comicbookpage.com/43:36 - Answer Man48:54 - New Collected Releases - http://www.collectedcomicslibrary.com/53:25 - New Single Issue ReleasesHAPPY HOLIDAYS!REMEMBER TO CHECK BACK TOMORROW.

Around Comics Ep. 159 - Roy Thomas pt. I

Around Comics - The Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 159Our Month of Heroes with The Comics Podcast Network and The Hero Initiative continues with part 1 of our conversation with Roy Thomas. Tom and Chris talk with the comics legend about fandom, comics history, Crisis, the early years at Marvel and more. Sal keeps us up to date in Wire2Wire Comics News and the Quiet! Panelologists At Work continue their A to Z of British comics. Jeremy Mullins and Will Pfeiffer have Web Comic and DVD suggestions. Tom's Answer Man segment welcomes a special guest with lots of questions about The Flash and social justice. We also get you ready for the week ahead with new collected and single issue releases.Timestamp:03:51 - Roy Thomas25:03 - Wire2Wire Comics News31:37 - Web Comics - http://www.nowheregirl.com/36:22 - A to Z British Comics - http://panelologists.com/40:42 - Answer Man47:48 - Pfeifer on DVDs - http://willpfeifer.com/50:18 - New Collected Releases - http://www.collectedcomicslibrary.com/56:30 - New Single Issue Releases

Around Comics Ep. 158 - The Club Nov. 2007 E

Around Comics - The Comic Book Culture Podcast - Ep. 158 - The Club
This week, our heroes Chris, Tom, Sal and Skotte discuss the Club pics from November. First up, they battle the southern fried freaks from Drive-By-Truckers two-disc CD "Southern Rock Opera". One of Chris'favorite discs takes a bit of a southern beat-down for it's mixed message and country roots. Next up, Guermo Del Toro's Spanish horror flick "The Devil's Backbone" get's it's backside buttered up. Creepy, touching, dramatic and entertaining, an overall entertaining film. Lastly, Ed Brubaker's Wildstorm murder
mystery "Point Blank" takes a few shots but recovers quickly. We finish up with a couple of voicemails, a few shoutouts and announcement, and Tom's picks for December Club.

Around Comics Ep. 157 - Denny O'Neil pt. II

The Month of Heroes with The Comics Podcast Network and The Hero Initiative continues with part 2 of our conversation with Denny O'Neil. Among other things, Denny talks about redefining the character of Batman and his years as a group editor at DC. Last week Greg Rucka announced he was not renewing his exclusive with DC. We talk with the writer to find out exactly what that means,and what we can expect from his current and future projects. The Quiet! Panelologists At Work continue their a to Z of British comics. Jeremy Mullins and Will Pfeiffer have Web Comic and DVD suggestions. Tom's Answer Man segment goes over his favorite Gorilla comics, and John Mayo gets inside the numbers of Diamonds top 300.

Around Comics Ep. 156 - Unhealthy Thinking E

AroundComics.com Comic Book Culture Podcast Ep. 156
This week
our heroes Tom, Skottie and Sal take on Fear Agent #17, Brave and the Bold #8,
Punisher War Jounal #13, ProjectX Challengers: Cup O' Noodles, Hawaiian Dick:
Screaming Black Thunder #1, and Showcase Presents: The Unknown Soldier and why
the U.S. Army has fought dinosaurs so often. Meanwhile...The Life and Death of
Evel Knievel, how creepy teenage
super-heroes really are, why everyone in comics is so ripped, The Year of The Yao, Michael Moore, Sicko,
Socialized Medicine, which HD channel the revolution will be televised on, why
we're all moving to Canada, how to fight mutant motorcycle gangs, and a bunch
of listener emails.

Around Comics Ep. 155 - Denny O'Neil

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 155

The
Month of Heroes with The Comics Podcast Network and The Hero Initiative
continues with Denny O'Neil. Join us for the first part of a conversation with
one of comics most influential writers and editors. Stay informed on industry
events with Wire 2 Wire Comic Book News and get ready for the week ahead with
new releases. We introduce a new segment from across the pond. Jeremy Mullins
and Will Pfeiffer have Web Comic and DVD suggestions as well as Tom's Answer
Man segment on every incarnation of The Flash.

Around Comics Ep. 153 - Gobble-Gobble!

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 153Our Heroes, Mike Norton, Skottie Young, Chris Neseman and Brian "Sal" Salazar, fight for your right to Wiki. Follow the powers of podcasting as they talk this week's Top of the Stack picks including Captain Marvel #1, House of M: Avengers #1, No Dominion: A Novel, Checkmate Vol. 1, League of Extraordinary Gentlemen: The Black Dossier, American Flagg, Tom Strong, Mage, Watchmen, The Circle #1 and whatever else comes to mind. Meanwhile...The forces of evil shudder at our stupidity as we discuss how to slice turkey with a lightsaber, if 616 is the Number of the Beast, why Wikipedia is stupid (except for Skottie's page), how Badger: Bull made Sal cry, why you should buy The All-New Atom #18, what t.v. shows we can't talk about because Tom"s not here, what shows are good to draw comics to, weird sleeping habits, prank calling Dan Buckley, Southland Tales, and Donnie Darko. Scribba-scrabble!

Around Comics Ep. 152 - Jason Aaron

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 152Jason Aaron has been thrilling comics fans with his dark and flawed characters in series like The Other Side and Scalped. Now in addition to Scalped he's doing a run on Wolverine and taking over duties on Ghost Rider. Listen in to hear Jason's thoughts on Marvel's Spirit of Vengeance and more. Wire 2 Wire comic book news keeps you informed on industry happenings and we get you ready for the week ahead with new releases. Jeremy Mullins and Will Pfeiffer have Web Comic and DVD suggestions as well as Tom's Answer Man segment on Crossovers.Timestamp:02:33 - Jason Aaron40:39 - Wire 2 Wire Comic Book News48:53 - New Releases56:55 - Hawkman's Journal1:02:25 - Web Comics1:06:42 - Answer Man1:14:32 - Pfeifer on DVDs

Around Comics Ep. 151 - Misery Loves Company E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 151
This
week, our heroes Tom, Sal, Skottie and Mike bust an old-school move on your
asses. Chris is off this week, and yet, we still find time ridicule him. Top of
the Stack includes Jonah Hex #25, Checkmate Vol. 1, The Ride - The Key To
Survival #1, Already Dead by Charlie Huston, Project X Challengers - 7-11, and
Scott Pilgrim Vol. 1. Meanwhile, the gang discusses why Tom now hates 300, Zach
Snyder on Watchmen, Sin City's woes and other comic book movie talk, and a
bunch of talk about where we all grew up.

Around Comics Ep. 150 - Darick Robertson, Steve Rude & More

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 150

It's an extra sized 150th episode of Around Comics! This week we talk with artist Darick Robertson about his work on The Boys, The Exterminators, Wolverine and ...Space Beaver? Steve Rude drops by to talk about the relaunch of Nexus and getting Rude Dude Productions off the ground. Wire 2 Wire comic book news returns, we visit Tom's couch, and get you ready with this week's new releases. Jeremy Mullins and Will Pfeiffer have Web Comic and DVD suggestions as well. Thanks for helping us get to 150!

Around Comics Ep. 149 - The Club

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 149On this episode, our heroes discuss the October Club Picks. Skottie had
the picks this month, and he chose Blast Tyrant by Clutch (CD), Open
Range starring Kevin Costner, Annette Benning and Robert Duvall (DVD),
and The Witching Hour from Jeph Loeb and Chris Bachalo (TPB). Chris,
Tom Sal, Skottie and Mike Norton break down all the good and bad, with
a few nuggets of edutainment thrown in. We also hear from Mario Muscar
and discuss the merits of Waterworld and The Posman. We wrap up the
episode with the tale of Skottie's vacation that almost didn"t happen
and next month’s picks. 00:45 - Intro
06:06 - Clutch: Blast Tyrant
23:01 - Open Range
39:03 - The Witching Hour
1:05:16 - Mario Muscar Email
1:10:57 – Skottie’s Adventure
1:30:49 – November Picks
1:35:11 - Outro

Around Comics Ep. 148 - Douglas Wolk

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 148

This week we talk with Douglas Wolk, the author of Reading Comics: How Graphic Novels Work and What They Mean. Find out what goes into being a comics critic and where the future of comics may be headed. We get you ready for the week ahead with new single issue, collected edition and DVD releases. Tom Katers is back as the Answer Man, Jeremy Mullins tells us about utternutsquash.net, John Mayo goes over the top 100 trades and Will Pfeifer talks new and old DVDs. All that and more!

Around Comics Ep. 146 - Spooktacular II

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 146This week we celebrate Halloween with a dramatic reading of a classic EC Tales From the Crypt tale. We get you ready for the week ahead with new single issue, collected edition and DVD releases. Tom Katers is back as the Answer Man and Darksied reads your e-mails. Regular segments include Jeremy Mullins on Web comics, John Mayo goes over the top 300 and Will Pfeifer talks new and old DVDs. All that and more!Timestamp:02:17 - Longbox Theatre Presents: Voodoo Death12:16 - New Releases20:06 - Web Comics22:42 - Letters from the Darksied28:00 - Pfeifer on DVDs30:25 - Answer Man37:55 - John Mayo on Sales and Market Trends41:29 - Back to the Future Rap46:58 - Manga Recommendations 51:16 - 24 Hour Comic Book Day

Around Comics Ep. 145 - Things Get Scary E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 145On another roundtable episode, our heroes Tom, Sal, Chris and Skottie (he didn't leave for Colorado and decided to talk comics) talk Elephantmen #11, Jack of Fables #16, Booster Gold #2, The Waiting Place Vol. 1, why Sean McKeever is androgynous, how Tom's life was saved by Brett Farve and the Packers, The Umbrella Academy #2, Brave and the Bold #7, Suburban Glamour #1, I Killed Adolph Hitler and the difference between Anamorphic and Anthropomorphic during Top of the Stack. The rest of the episode includes talk about the cancellation of American Virgin, best wishes for Marie Severin, Hoverdiscs, Radiohead and the future of music, Amazon's music store, Kid Rock's stubbornness, Guitar Hero, Metallica, 30 Days of Night, 28 Weeks Later, Land of the Dead, Return of the Living Dead, the Nightmare on Elm Street franchise, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, The Hills Have Eyes, Saw, High Tension, Joy Ride, The Ring, The Blair Witch Project, Jaws, The Audition, Old Boy, Cal McDonald Mysteries, The Walking Dead, Haunted Houses, and other scary stuff.

Around Comics Ep. 144 - Christos Gage

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 144This week features a conversation with writer Christos Gage. We get you ready for the week ahead with new single issue, collected edition and DVD releases. Tom Katers talks continuity and Skottie drops an audio A-Bomb for this week's rant. Jeremy Mullins on Web comics, John Mayo goes over the top 100 trades and Will
Pfeifer talks new and old DVDs.

Around Comics Ep. 141 - 24 Hour Podcast Highlights E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 141In this episode, our heroes take part in the 24 Hour Comic Book Podcast. We take a look back at the day that was. First up, Crank, Sal, Norton & Siuntres talk to Chris Moreno about what he's working on, how much he loves ninjas, and short, obscene robots with guns. Later, Skottie, Sal, Tom, Dave Wachter, Mike Norton, Chris Taber, and Casey get into Movie. Then a surprise visit from Avengers
scribe Brian Michael Bendis. We finish off the show with a special tribute to insanity. Don"t miss the highlights and lowlights from this historic event.

Around Comics Ep. 137 - The End? Not Really E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 137The End? Not really, but as we prepare for the new Around Comics we take one more leap into the e-mail bag. There are lots of interesting topics that pop up including Batman, Spawn, Black and White reprints, what to do when visiting New York, and... Kid Nation? All that and more on this last episode before we blow things up and launch the new formats next week.

Around Comics Ep. 135 - Nicola Scott E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 135Around Comics welcomes Australian artist Nicola Scott. Listen in to hear how Nicola got her start in comics and how she manages her collaborations from the other side of the globe. Nicola is staying on art duties for Birds of Prey for now, and she discusses the beginning of Sean McKeever's run as writer on the series. Find out how Nicola almost became a real life Wonder Woman and why Gail Simone fears for the life of My Little Pony. If you're a DC fan and enjoy Nicola's work, she has some great news for you as well.

Around Comics Ep. 134 - News, Reviews and Previews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 134Join Chris, Tom, Skottie, Sal and Mike as they discuss The Emerald City ComiCon, the birth of Henry Leo DeFraction, Platinum Studios going public, Desolation Jones updates, Younr Avengers Presents, Diamond's POS announcement, Duran Duran comics, X-Men Dissasembled and more. In the second half of this episode the gang talks Maintenance #5, Daredevil vol. 12, Thor # 3, American Virgin #2 and Daredevil #100 in Top of the Stack They finish up the show with Futurestaxx and a few announcements.

Around Comics Ep. 133 - I Love It When A Plan Comes Together E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 133Sometimes the best episodes are the ones that aren't planned. After some technical difficulties trying to call Australia we settle down into some general comics talk. We discuss what comics brought some us back to the hobby after taking some time away. What are some of the dream projects and collected editions we'd like to see? What are some of the properties we would like to see come to comics, and what are some of our favorite Graphic Novels? Mike Norton and John Siuntres join Chris, Sal, Tom and Skottie for a fun emergency episode. Come back next week as the Search for Nicola Scott continues.

Around Comics Ep. 132 - News, Reviews and Previews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 132On
another Monday Episode of Around Comics, the gang goes over the news, Top of
the Stack Picks, Futurestaxx and listener emails. In the news, the top stories
include content changes for Superman Confidential, Jim Shooter returns to the
Legion of Super-Heroes, Diamond announcing the elimination of their reorder
penalties, the various reports of the Dabel Brothers owing creators for work
and more. In Top of the Stack we discuss Top Ten Vol. 2, Preacher Vol. 7,
Lobster Johnson #1, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer S8 #6. We round out the show
with a look at next weeks releases and a few emails.

Around Comics Ep. 131 - Trades vs. Single Issues E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 131This week the Around Comics studio moves to Skottie Young's house for a casual conversation about Trades vs. Single issues. It's one of the hot button topics in comics today, and there's no question that trades have changed the way that a lot of comics are written and purchased. John Siuntres joins Sal, Tom, Chris and Skottie for an episode filled with listener e-mails, forum posts and interesting takes on how we like to read certain comics.

Around Comcis Ep. 130 - News, Reviews and Previews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 130Join Chris, Tom, Sal, Skottie and John as they go over the weeks news, review their Top of the Stack picks and take a look at next weeks books. Top news stories include 'Wanted' filming with Angelina Jolie, DC Showcase changes, we talk with 'Nightly News' creator Johnathan Hickman about his new series 'Pax Romana', Brian Reed announces 'The Circle', Marvel Zombie covers for Halloween and more. Top of the Stack features DC Fifty-Two Aftermath #1, The Last Call Vol. #1, Action Comics #855, Preacher Vol #4, and Ex Machina Special #3. We wrap up the show wth FUturestaxx and some listener email.

Around Comics Ep. 129 - Events in the Modern Age E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 129Love them or hate them, events are a huge part of the mainstream comics landscape. This week Chris, Tom and Hank talk about events in the modern age from Secret Wars and Crisis on Infinite Earths to World War Hulk and Final Crisis. We give brief summaries of the events that have shaped comics continuity good and bad for the last 20 years and look forward to the comic events to come.

Around Comics Ep. 128 - News, Reviews and Previews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 128This episode Chris, Tom and Hank go over the last week in comics while Sal and Skottie are away. The news includes the Dabel Brothers split with Marvel, a new Wizard of Oz, Hawaiian Dick's ongoing series and a talk with Maintenance creators Robbi Rodriguez and Jim Massey. An expanded Top of the Stack segment has reviews of Lackluster World, Wolverine, Astonishing X-Men, Green Arrow: Year One, Mouse Guard, Black Summer, The Spirit and Iron Fist. We get a sneak peak at this week's new releases in Future Stax, and read some listener e-mails including one from the USS Abraham Lincoln!

Around Comics Ep. 127 - Greg Rucka Returns

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 127One of the busiest writers in comics returns to Around Comics to talk about the myriad projects hitting comic shops, movie theaters, book stores and the video game market. Greg talks about the experience of being on set for the filming of Whiteout and how they made him work for the Executive Producer title. The new Atticus Kodiak novel Patriot Acts is do to hit stores this month, and we discuss the life of trained killers and the research that goes into gun fights and writing a personal security specialist. Greg talks about integrating espionage into the DC Universe with Checkmate and what we can expect from his new Question series Crime Bible. Queen And Country is on hiatus until at least 2009, but there are big changes and exciting revelations in store for fans of series to look forward to. Greg is set to begin a new PI series called Stumptown, and he talks about his love of gimmick free detective stories and how he's bringing that to comics. We wrap up with some insight into the new Siphon Filter game and how Greg is introducing a new level of realism to the video game franchise. The episode concludes with listener e-mails and Sal's declaration that he would eat everyone in the event of a snowstorm.

Around Comics Ep. 126 - Mike Wieringo Remembered E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 126Mike Wieringo was an amazing artist, mentor,creator, and friend. Join Chris, Sal, Tom, Skottie Young, Mike Norton and Josh Middleton, as they discuss Mike's career and what he meant to us all. Whether you knew him as a friend, a peer, or simply as a fan, Mike's passion, joy and fantastic talent made him someone that was respected, loved and cherished throughout the industry.

Around Comics Ep. 125c - Wizard World Chicago Saturday E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 125CThe big day of the con is always Saturday, and once again, the Around Comics Crew has all the new hottness. Chris, Sal, Tom and Skottie continue talking because no one cares to stop them. Listen in as they talk about their favorite costumes from the show, how Skottie saved a small childs life, why Jeffrey Brown is working on an MMA comic, math and Bob Evans with Sean McKeever, Jim McLaughlin from the H.E.R.O. Initiative, Ape Entertainment and B. Clay Moore. Don;t miss the third and final installment of our con coverage from Wizard World Chicago 2007.

Around Comics Ep. 125b - Wizard World Chicago Friday E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 125BWizard World Chicago rolls on into Friday and Around Comics is there to cover the action. Chris, Sal, Tom and Skottie continue talking to creators, fans, storm troopers and anyone else that walks by. Listen in for on the floor discussions with Shane White, two writers from Batman Strikes, Cullen Bunn of The Damned, J Tores, Jan Jones and Ron Richards from iFanboy. Check back tomorrow for more con coverage as we all start to sound more like Soloman Grundy.

Around Comics Ep. 125a - Wizard World Chicago: Preview Night E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 125AWizard World Chicago kicks off on Thursday with Preview night and Around Comics is in the mix. Join Chris, Sal, Tom and Skottie as we record from the con floor and bring you so close to the fun, you can smell the geek. The crew sits down with C. B. Cebulski from Marvel Comics, our good buddy and artist of All-New Atom Mike Norton and DC's head honcho Dan Didio. Not a bad way to start the weekend. Check in all week with on the floor reports, news and more from Wizard Worlds biggest show of the year.

Around Comics Ep. 124 - Listener Feedback E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 124The day before Wizard World Chicago begins we're taking the opportunity to
thank the listeners that have sent us e-mails, voicemails and posted on our
forum. This all listener feedback episode gives us the chance to clear out the
in-box and answer questions or just have a good laugh with listeners. Check back
this weekend and all next week as we head down the street and take in everything
that Wizard World Chicago has to offer.
Thanks again to everyone. Here's to another 124!

Around Comics Ep. 123 - News, Reviews and Previews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 123On this episode, Chris, Sal, Tom and Skottie go over some more news from Comic-Con, including the Eisner Award winners, some new dc animated features, the four creative teams for Amazing Spider-Man, The New Punisher, Iron-Man trailer, Robert Downey Jr, Grant Morrison on Final Crisis, and The Spirit movie casting. Top of the Stac picks include Fantastic Four #548, My Freind Dahmer, Classwar and Buffy the Vampire Hunter #8. We also go over some of next weeks releases in Futurestaxx as well as what Skottie would do if the word 'awesome' never existed, comic book papparatzzi, and more. Don't miss our Thursday Episode when we go over a bunch of listener email and questions.

Around Comics Ep. 122 - Comics 101 : Comic Book Conventions E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 122In this episode we give our advice on how to make the most of your convention experience. We cover everything from what shoes to wear to what should be in your con bag. Skottie Young gives his pointers on getting sketches and commissions and how to approach creators. Mark Beatty gives us the dealer perspective and provides tips on how you can save a few bucks on everything from quarter books to statues. We're also joined by Stevie D. from the Comic Book Queers podcast in this fun and informative discussion on how to survive conventions.

Around Comics Ep. 121 - News, Reviews and Previews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 121San-Diego Comic-Con 2007 was in full swing this weekend. Every publisher, big or small, was releasing press releases, news stories and surprises. Join Chris, Sal, Tom and Skottie as they go over the latest news, talk about Box Office Poison, Preacher Vol. 3, Annihilation Conquest: Starlord #1 and Immortal Iron Fist #7 in Top of the Stack. We wrap up with what's coming out next week and a few other ramblings. Don't forget to check in on Thursday when we talk about Comic Convention Boot Camp.

Around Comics Ep. 120 - Comic Book and Video Games E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 120Around Comics welcomes Mike Kennedy and Adam Schwenk of EA Games to the roundtable. We discuss what goes into the creation and development of one of the world's favorite forms of entertainment and how the process has changed over the years. We talk about what video game franchises have made the jump to the printed medium, and what comic properties have successfully and not so successfully made it to your favorite console. Listen in for a behind the scenes look at the video game industry and how comic books and their creators are playing a key role.

Around Comics Ep. 119 - News, Reviews and Previews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 119This week, Chris, Sal and Skottie are joined by Mike and Adam from EA Games (It's in the Game). The panel goes over the news of the week, Top of the Stack picks, and Futurestax! In the news we discuss Dial R Studios SDCC plans, The founding members of Image reuniting, Juan Ferreyra's new book 'Lazarus', Brian Reed writing for Dynamite, Matt Wagner writing Zorro, and we hear from Rick Remender on his new zombie book 'Crawl Space'. During Top of the Stack picks include Wolverine Origins Annual #1, New X-Men #40, Fell #9, World War Hulk #2 and a pinch-hit TOTS from Skottie's gal Casey. Futurestax! and listener email round out the show. Don't forget to check back on Thursday when we talk some more with the EA guys about what it takes to produce those digital addictions for the PS3, X-Box and Wii.

Around Comics Ep. 118 - Being a Comic Book Artist E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 118Join us as we talk with Skottie Young, artist of New X-Men, and Mike Norton, artist of The All-New Atom, as we discuss the ins and outs of being a professional comic book artist. From working with writers and scripts, to breakdowns, thumbnails and finished pages, we quiz the boys on what it really is like to work for Marvel and DC. Beyond the "How To Draw", this informative, funny and educational look at the working habits of two of comics brightest young stars is a must listen for aspiring artists and non-artists alike. Because we recieved so many good questionson our forum, we turn the converation into an extended Q & A, but don't worry, Sal ad Tom chime in with more than enought of their own thoughts and comments.

Around Comics Ep. 116 - Music and Comics with Dave Wyndorf E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 116Around Comics welcomes Monster Magnet frontman and comics enthusiast Dave Wyndorf. What starts as a discussion about the influences and relationships between comics and music quickly turns into general comics talk. Listen in to hear about the evolution of comics through the years, the business of comics and music, lots of Jack Kirby love and why we love the term Cartoonist. Tom, Sal, Chris and Skottie answer listener e-mail and talk about their abs

Around Comics Ep. 115 - News, Reviews and Previews

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 115This week, Chris, Sal Tom and Skottie discuss the Elephantmen hardcover resolicitaiton, casting for Batman Returns, the Transformers movie, the trouble with chimps, where to get a good microwave burrito in Chicago, Batman and the Outsiders and just which Apostle was Judas. during Top of the Stack the panel goes over Scalped #7, Punisher Max #49, Preacher Volume #1, and Faker #1. We also read some listener emails and pick the winners of our Be a Hero Contest. Don't miss our Thursday Episode when we talk about music and comics.

Around Comics Ep. 114 - Realism in Comics

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 114In a medium entrenched in the fantastical and amazing, it may surprise some how much of "reality" permeates the mainstream. Be it violence, sex, drugs, politics or the everyday mundane happening of life, comics has seemingly gone from the wondrous to the real. Join Sal, Tom, Skootie Young, Mike Norton and John Siuntres as the panel discusses the good, bad and ugly sides of reality in comic books.

Around Comics Ep. 113 - News, Reviews and Previews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 113Sal, Tom and Skottie go over the weeks news, Bendis signing with Marvel, Diamond sales for May, the end of Hero Squared and what we would ask Joss Whedon if we happen to be in the same room with him. Top of the stack included Sinestro Corps #1, The Tick 20th Anniversary and Y: The Last Man Vol. 8. We also go over next weeks releases. Don't forget to check back Thursday when the panel discusses reality in comics.

Around Comics Ep. 112 - David Peterson

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 112Mouse Guard creator David Peterson discusses his series about mice trying to survive in a society filled with intrigue and natural threats. Hear about the little indie book that captured the attention of the comics world as David talks about how he created the world of Mouse Guard. We cover everything from the concept to the artistic
decisions that make the series a standout book in the comics industry. Listen in to find out what is next for Mouse Guard as well as stories about meeting Guy Davis and the horrors and highlights of conventions.

Around Comics Ep. 111 - News and Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 111This week the gang talks about Dwayne McDuffie taking over JLA, Marc Waid taking over The Flash, the upcoming nuptials of Green Arrow and Black Canary, Sam Jackson putting on a patch and more recent comics news. Top of the Stack features Flash #13, Brave and the Bold #4 and Highwaymen #1. Don't miss Thursday's episode when we are joined by Mouse Guard creator David Peterson.

Around Comics Ep. 110 - Frank Miller Spotlight E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 110Around Comics shines the spotlight on the ever changing and evolving career of Frank Miller. Listen in as we cover everything from his early days at Marvel working on Daredevil to his most recent movie success with Sin City and 300. Sal and Chris discuss the high points and major works in Miller's career as well as his impact on the industry and other creators. Along the way you'll hear thoughts and opinions from David Price, Ande Parks, Gerry Duggan, John Byrne and a mystery guest you won't want to miss.

Around Comics Ep. 109 - News & Reviews

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 109On a very lonely episode, Chris and Sal go over the weeks news and reviews. They talk the Flash, Amazing Spider-Man, Troma, Marvel Comics Presents, and other con news. We check in with Skottie at Heroes Con and Pat Loika from Wizard World Philly. Find out what Skottie and Josh Middleton do while alone in their hotel room, and where Pat plans on kicking out of control Bendis fans. In the Top of the Stack segment, the boys are joined by Ted Apoc to go over Fables vol 9, World War Hulk and the latest Hellboy installment. Check back on Thursday for our spotlight on Frank Miller.

Around Comics Ep. 108 - Savannah College of Art and Design E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 108For anyone who has an interest in the education of creating comics or is interested in pursuing a career in the sequential arts, this episode is for you. The Savannah College of Art and Design offers a program dedicated to sequential art. Encompassing graphic novels, comic books, comic strips, children's books and storyboards for animation and film, SCAD is one of the few institutions that offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in this specialized field. Professor of Sequential Art Jeremy Mullins and Graduated students Mia Paluzzi and Jarrett Williams join Around Comics to discuss the school and how they prepare students for a career in comics.

Around Comics Ep. 107 - News & Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 107Powerful forces from beyond have brought together a podtastic panel for this weeks News and Reviews. Join Chris, Tom and Sal as they are joined by New X-Men artist Skottie Young, Scar Tissue artist Dave Wachter, and Comic Book Queer hosts Eric and Stevie D, as they discuss The Bill Finger Awards, the William Gaines movie, Jim Shooter's return to the Valiant Universe, Stan's signing with Disney, and who is dead or alive in the world of comics. And don't miss the second half of the show as the Ghost of John Siuntres and Tom fight it out about Avenger's Illuminati 3. They boys also go over some emails and voicemails. All apologies to Gardner Fox and Don Rosa.

Around Comics Ep. 106 - Jamie McKelvie

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 106Around Comics welcomes the artist and co-creator of Phonogram. Find out how this self taught comic artist worked with series writer Kieron Gillen to combine music, magic and comics in a way you have to read to believe. Jamie discusses his upcoming project Suburban Glamour, future Phonogram stories, the technical side of his craft, and his experience as a punk rock drummer. We wrap up the show with listener voicemails, e-mails and a few recommendations.

Around Comics Ep. 105 - News and Reviews

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 105With Chris away, Sal and Tom are joined by Mike Norton to discuss the weeks comic book news and Top of the Stack pics. The crew talks about The illegal Silver Surfer Quarters, the Russ Manning Award nominees, Superman Doomsday cartoon, Star Trek, The Flash, Teen Titans Movie, 300 and more. We also go over our favorite books of the week, next weeks releases and some listener emails.

Around Comics Ep. 104 - Under the Radar E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 104Most comic fans know about the books that sell in diamond's top 100, but don't stop there! We're living in a time were there are hundreds of quality comics to check out. The variety of genres and styles of comics has exploded, and it can be overwhelming to try and find that hidden gem that could be your new favorite book. There are books like DMZ and Ex Machina that have important social messages and books like The Goon, The All New Atom and Stormwatch PHD that are just plain comic book fun. Listen in as Chris, Tom, Sal, Skottie and John take a look at some of their favorite "Under the Radar" titles. A special thanks to John Siuntres as he sits in for his last time as a regular on the show.

Around Comics Ep. 103 - News and Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 103News of the week and our top picks. Join Chris, Tom and Sal, Scottie and John as they discuss the latest stories from the past week, including the the new Badger book, Fantagraphics looking for Pogo art, Sorrow from Rick Remender, the FF cartoon, and more. Top of the Stack pics include Guttsville, Criminal, Birds of Prey, Elephantmen and others.

Around Comics Ep. 102 - Comics 101: JSA

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 102Tom takes center stage as we learn about the history of the Justice Society of America. Get educated about the JSA's founding members, the interesting cross company relationship that spawned the super group, and how the team has evolved into the JSA we know today. What JSA member was made from clay? What member had a weakness to wood? What member was a florist? Learn the answers to these questions and more as Tom blows the minds of Chris, Sal and Skottie.

Around Comics Ep. 101 - News and Reviews

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 101News of the week and our top picks. Join Chris, Tom and Sal as they are joined by returning guests John Siuntres and Scottie Young. The crew breaks down the latest stories from the past week, including the new Countdown to Adventure series, Sean McKeever taking over Teen Titans, how and why Diamond rejected the ComicsFoundry magazine, the Adam Hughes MJ statue and more. Make sure to check out Thursday's episode: Comics 101 - JSA.

Around Comics Ep. 100 - Plain talk with Cecil Castellucci E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 100Skottie Young continues his duties as guest host while Sal is away. Chris, Tom and Skottie are joined by Cecil Castellucci, the author of DC's new MINX book The Plain Janes. Listen in as the panel discusses the challenges of moving from novels to comics, writing for a target audience and breaking down the stereotypes of who can read comics. Find the answers to what is the most covered band tattoo is, and what it's like to camp out for movie tickets... For SIX weeks!

Around Comics Ep. 099 - News & Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 99With Sal gone for the week, the panel gets Younger. Skottie Young sits in for Sal and John Siuntres joins Chris and Tom to go over the weeks news and reviews. There's lots of movie news including Shazam, The Hulk, New Frontier and X4. Sal calls in to give his thoughts on Gary Frank moving to DC and the panel has a discussion on what is really "news" in comics. We read some great listener e-mails and Skottie recalls Fragaboom. Top of the Stack reviews include the last
issue of Phonogram, Blade, New Avengers and a book by Ben Templesmith that Skottie can't remember the name of. Come back on Thursday for more Skottie Young gooodness and a conversation with new Minx author Cecil Castellucci.

Around Comics Ep. 098 - Spider-Man 3

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 98Around Comics goes to the movies. Join us for a discussion about Spider-Man 3 with one of the behind the scenes creators. Storyboard artist Gabe Hardman talks about his involvement in preproduction and reveals a few funny stories about working with director Sam Rami. Chris, Sal and Marta continue the discussion with their thoughts on the Spider-Man franchise and comic book based movies in general.

Around Comics Ep. 097 - Free Comic Book Day 2007

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 97Chris and Sal spend Saturday at Dark Tower Comics to experience Free Comic Book Day. They talk about the week in news, have a quick chat with Steve Rude about the new Nexus book, talk with a few Dark Tower customers, sit down with Brent Schoonover from Horrorwood, go over some of the free books we grabbed and more. Don't miss our Thursday episode when we talk to Spider-Man 3 storyboard artist Gabe Hardman.

Around Comics Ep. 096 - Matt Fraction

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 96Listen in as we discuss
his work on Casanova, Punisher War Journal, The Immortal Iron Fist and the new
Champions... er unnamed series from Marvel. How do he and Ed Brubaker compliment
each other as writers? Why did an angry Punisher fan call him a nazi? Is 52 a
better read in one sitting? Find out the answers to these questions and more.
Also, Josh Flanagan from iFanboy joins the roundtable in a fun conversation
about fandom, podcasts, hot tubs and what's great about independent comics.

Around Comics Ep. 095 - News and Reviews - Plus! E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 95Holy over-sized panel Batfans! On a night where we welcomed Josh from iFanboy.com, Mike Norton and Scottie Young surprise us with a visit and sit in on the show. Chris, Tom Sal, John, Josh, Mike and Scottie try to get through the news and Pick of the..er.. Top of the Stack, but somehow we keep getting sidetracked on just about anything but comics. I can't imagine how that happened. Tune in for one of our funnest, craziest and just plain filthiest shows ever. The irreverence doesn't stop until Elvis has left the building.

Around Comics Ep. 094 - Life as a Freelancer

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 94Join Sal, Tom and John, as they are joined by Hilary Barta and Mike Norton. The gang talks about the road to, and the journey of, being a freelance comic book artist. Along the way we make a few detours to discuss Watchmen, what it is like to be in a bar with a dead man, and how to avoid bear attacks. Tom introduces a new segment - Letter Page Classics! Don't miss a second of the hilarity, irreverence and infunimation.

Around Comics Ep. 093 - News and Reviews

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 93While Chris is away the panel will play. Sal and Tom are joined by John Siuntres, Hilary Barta and Mike Norton to talk about the past weeks news and their picks for Top of the Stack. The panel discusses Edward Norton as the new Bruce Banner, APE, Fallen Son Special Edition, The 2007 Eisner Award nominations and more. Don't miss Thursday when we talk to Mike and Hilary about breaking into the industry and life as a freelance illustrator.

Around Comics Ep. 092 - 52 in Review

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 92Chris, Tom and Sal recap and discuss the first 50 weeks of 52. DC's weekly series has delivered stories with little known and underused characters, keeping readers coming back to their local comic shops to solve the mystery of what is "52". This week we break down each story line of the epic and give our predictions on how series will conclude before moving on to Countdown.

Around Comics Ep. 091 - News and Reviews

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 91Chris, Tom, Sal and john discuss Ghost Rider in court, Death Dealer, the monthly sales, Gail Simone on Wonder Woman and much more. We listen to an exclusive negotiation between Dan DiDio and DOOM!. Top of the Stack reviews include Nova, Fables, Fell and others. Check back later this week for our review and recap of DC's 52.

Around Comics Ep. 090 - Richard Starking pt. II

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 90In the second part of our conversation with Richard Starkings we move our focus from lettering to Hip Flask and The Elephantmen. What started as a character to help market Comicraft, Hip Flask has become the centerpiece of The Elephantmen universe. A dark and gritty look at a world where the lines between man and animal are blurred, The Elephantmen embraces the widescreen format and showcases amazing artwork with smart and unique stories. Hip Flask is a series that comes out at it's own pace. Listen in to find out why it's worth the wait.

Around Comics Ep. 089 - Richard Starkings pt. I

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 89Richard Starkings has been a writer, editor and acclaimed font designer. Starting in the UK working for the likes of 2000AD and Marvel UK, Starkings soon turned his attention to the development of computer based comic book lettering. Listen in as we discuss his early years in the UK and the path he took to become the founder of Comicraft. Check back tomorrow for the conclusion of this two-part interview as we dive into the world of The Elephantmen.

Around Comics Ep. 088 - News & Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 88News, reviews and listener feedback. Chris, Tom and Sal discuss De: Tales, Daredevil, B.P.R.D, a new Tales from the Crypt, Spider-Man week, Grant Morrison on Area 51 and much more. Stephanie Mangold checks in with her Manga report and we get more disturbing calls from Canada. Check back later this week for a two part interview with comic book creator and innovator Richard Starkings.

Around Comics Ep. 087 - What makes a good comic shop? E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 87What makes a good comic shop. Location, customer service, selection and discounts are some of the topics we discuss with a super-sized panel. Join Chris, Sal and Tom as they welcome the creative team of Ape Entertainment's new book White Picket Fences. We also call Ron and Conor from iFanboy to see what they think. Some of the opinions will surprise you. In addition we swap horror stories, read forum posts and as always, talk about a bunch of unrelated topics. Come and join in on the silliness.

Around Comcis Ep. 086 - Bugging Simon Oliver

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 86It's no secret that everyone at Around Comics loves The
Exterminators. Author Simon Oliver returns for an interview that picks up from
our discussion last August. Find out how fan reaction has changed towards a book
about pest control and our never ending struggle with the forces of nature.
Simon's outsider perspective of the comics industry raises interesting points on
how comics are marketed and distributed as well as how they are viewed outside
of the industry. What does the future hold for The Exterminators and it's unique
cast of characters? Listen in for clues and revelations.

Around Comics Ep. 085 - News and Reviews

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 85News and Reviews from the past week. This week we talk about Top Cow's digital comic offering, Eric Powell's return to the Goon, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and more. Reviews of the week include Fables, Gamekeeper, The Secret Six and JSA Classified. We also hear one of the weirdest voicemails ever sent to us. Remember to join us later this week when we talk with the boys from the new Ape Entertainment book White Picket Fences, about what makes a good comic shop.

Around Comics Ep. 084 - The Return of Ed Brubaker

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 84The Return of Ed Brubaker. Around Comic welcomes the man who killed Captain America. Or did he? Ed Brubaker discusses what has happened since the release of Captain America #25. Listen in as we cover the media attention, the fan reaction, how to kill an icon and where the series goes from here. After a long talk about Cap, we cover other Brubaker projects including The Immortal Iron Fist, Daredevil and Criminal.

Around Comics Ep. 083 - News & Reviews

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 83Around Comics welcomes back some of our favorite guests in this News and Reviews episode. Eric and Stevie D from the Comic Book Queers podcast and DC artist Mike Norton sit down to talk about Peanuts, Matt Wagner, Marvel Theme Parks, Girls, Angelina Jolie and more. Sal asks Chris to recount a horrible nightmare involving cartoon characters. The mega-sized panel has lot's of recommendations in Top of the Stack including JSA, The Losers, Welcome to Tranquility, Justice League Unlimited among others. Remember to check back on Wednesday for a conversation with Simon Oliver of The Exterminators and Friday for Ed Brubaker.

Around Comics Ep. 082 - Comics 101 with Josh Blaylock

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 82Comics 101 - How to make comics. Concept to Comic Shops. Devil's Due
Publishing's president Josh Blaylock drops by Dark Tower to help guide us
through the process of getting a comic all the way from the pitch to print. What
goes into making a good pitch? When does a publisher start marketing a book? How
has the book retailer market changed the way publishers schedule and sell a
series? We discuss all these topics and more. Along the way we learn what movies
scared both Josh and Tom during their formative years.

Around Comics Ep. 081 - News and Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 81News and Reviews from the past week. The panel gives their thoughts on The Dabel Brothers, the passing of Arnold Drake, Gene Simmons and the Kiss Comics Group, Robert Kirkman's busy Free Comic Book Day and more. We have a chance to finally catch up on playing listener voicemails including two about the death of Cap. Reviews of the week include Tom's first time picking 52. Remember to join us later this week for an interview with The Exterminators author Simon Oliver and a Comics 101 episode with Josh Blaylock, the President of Devil's Due Publishing.

Around Comics Ep. 079 - NYCC Wrap-Up pt. II E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 79New York Comic Con Wrap-Up Part II. John Siuntres joins us again as we recall the events of The New York Comic
Con. Did Tom get to ask Carmine Infantino if he could explain The Speed Force?
Did Sal get into a knife fight with a Stormtrooper? Could Chris repack his giant
suitcase? All these questions and more get answered in our NYCC finale.

Around Comics Ep. 078 - NYCC Wrap-Up pt. II E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 78New York Comic Con Wrap-Up Part 1. In the first part of our report from The Big Apple, the crew tells John Siuntres about our adventures in the City that Never Sleeps. Listen to interviews with Greg Rucka, Michael Golden, and a conversation between Mike Norton and Sean McKeever. There's lots of comic talk mixed with biscuits and gravy, giant suitcases, Jim Steranko, air mattresses and Gary Coleman. Remember to check back on Friday for the finale of our New York wrap-up.

Around Comics Ep. 077 - News & Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 77News and Top of the Stack. Fresh off their trip to the New York Comic Con,
Chris, Tom and Sal sit down with John Siuntres to give their views on all the
convention announcements. Top of the Stack selections include Dr. Strange the
Oath, Justice, Teenagers From Mars, Gearhead, Magnitude and GB Tran's Content.
Check back later this week for two more episodes recapping our experiences at
the New York Comic Con.

Around Comics Ep. 076 - Marc Guggenheim E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 76Around Comics welcomes Marc Guggenheim. Marc Guggenheim is a veteran writer from the world of TV. His credits include stints on The Practice, Law & Order, CSI Miami, and Brothers & Sisters. Comic Book fans now know him as the writer who took Wolverine on his Vendetta during Civil war and is currently spinning tales with Howard Chaykin in Blade as well as the socially relevant action mini series Hyperion vs Nighthawk. To the excitement of Tom Katers and others, Marc will be taking over writing duties on DC's The Flash. Check back next week as we bring you news and interviews from The New York Comic Con!

Around Comics Ep. 075 - News and Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 75News and Reviews from the past week. The panel discusses Rich Koslowski's
Three Geeks movie project, new Marvel Zombie figures, The Walking Dead, Frank
Miller's Ronin the movie, January's sales numbers, Diamond's silver anniversary
and much more. Reviews include JSA, Batman, Blade and Godland. We announce a few
more details about the New York Comic Con, and prepare to finish up our Absolute
Watchmen contest. Remember to listen in on Thursday for a conversation with Marc
Guggenheim!

Around Comics Ep. 074 - Cullen Bunn E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 74Around Comics welcomes writer Cullen Bunn. 2006
saw the debut of one our favorite new series, Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt's THE
DAMNED. Cullen discusses the pitfalls of writing a book with not one but two
genres, crime and horror. What does the future hold for THE DAMNED and it's
diverse cast of thugs, demons, dames and antihero protagonist? Listen and find
out. Stephanie Mangold checks in with her first report on the world of Manga
and then we wrap up with some fun comic talk and listener e-mails.

Around Comics Ep. 073 - News and Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 73Join us for a recap of news from the world of comic books including, Wonder Woman and Flash movie updates, Rude Dude Productions, Caliber Comics goes digital, The Boys move to Dynamite and more. The panel gives their Top of the Stack recommendations including The Dark Tower, Fell, Jeff Smith's SHAZAM and several others. Make sure to tune in on Thursday for our conversation with creator Cullen Bunn.

Around Comics Ep. 072 - Jeffrey Brown E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 72Around Comics welcomes alternative comics creator Jeffrey Brown. Jeffrey Brown is a comic book writer and artist originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, but we're lucky enough that he now calls Chicago home. Of course if you read the autobiographical works of Jeffrey Brown you already know that. Join us as we have a conversation about Jeffrey's Grand Rapids roots, his time in art school, his relationship inspired works, and how he's changing as an artist and writer. Around Comics takes a look at the other side of comics with one of the industry's most poignant and unique talents.

Around Comics Ep. 071 - News and Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 71Join us for a recap of news from the world of comic books including, DC's World War III, The Boys cancelation, Free Comic Book Day, Stephen Colbert's Tek Jansen, Whiteout the movie, new Alan Moore projects and much more. The panel goes over our Top of the Stack picks and make a big announcement about the New York Comic Con. Special guests include John Siuntres and Mike Norton. Make sure to tune in on Thursday for our conversation with creator Jeffrey Brown.

Around Comics Ep. 070 - Russ Cochran E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 70Around Comics welcomes Russ Cochran. EC Comics were the most groundbreaking and
industry changing comics of their or maybe any other era. Without the efforts of
one man, the EC library may have been lost and all but forgotten. This
university physics professor turned comics vanguard has preserved and protected
the legacy of EC Comics for new generations to enjoy. Join us for this
informative and entertaining conversation with the man who for over thirty years
has kept the EC fire alive. For brief history and discussion about EC, don't
forget to list to Around Comics Episode 69, EC Comics 101 with special guest
Hilary Barta.

Around Comics Ep. 069 - Comics 101: EC Comics

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 69Comics 101 - EC Comics
Entertaining Comics or as they were more commonly known, EC Comics were the
most groundbreaking and industry changing comics of their or maybe any other
era. The list of creators that worked for EC are a comic historian's Who's Who
of sequential art legends. In this comics 101 edition of Around Comics, we take
a step-by-step look at the history of EC Comics. With the help of comics veteran
Hilary Barta we discuss the lasting mark that the company and it's creators left
on the comic book industry.

Aeound Comics Ep. 068 - News and Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 68Around Comics takes a look back on the previous week's news and new comic book releases. John Siuntres and listener Jay Scarsy join the panel to discuss top headlines such as the return of Tank Girl, the new Black Coat series, Alan Moore and the Black Dossier, New York Comic Con programing and Comic Shop Payola. Book reviews include Phonogram, Green Lantern Corps, Agents of Atlas, Hyperion Vs Nighthawk, JSA and more.

Around Comics Ep. 067 - Steve Rude E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 67Steve Rude joins us for a conversation about his career and the newly formed
Rude Dude Productions. The creator of The Moth and co-creator of the
groundbreaking series Nexus discusses how his new production company will bring
both of those titles back to comics in 2007. Steve talks about his influences
and how important passing on knowledge is to him as a teacher and mentor. What
life changing impact did Bruce Lee have on his life? Listen in to find out that
and more about one of the most talented creators of the past 25 years.

Around Comics Ep. 066 - News and Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 66The first Wire2Wire News and Top of the Stack show of 2007. The top news
stories include new collections for Crossgen, Transformers movie and comics
updates, Stan Lee and Joe Quesada's Marvel: Then and Now, and Tom explains why
God hates Marvel. Top of the Stack includes reviews of All-Star Superman,
Scalped, Casualties of War: Civil War and more. Hilary Barta stops by and
confuses Chris, Sal, Tom and John with questions about the Teenage Mutant Ninja
Turtles.
Don't forget to listen in on Thursday's episode for a discussion with
comics great Steve Rude!

Around Comics Ep. 065 - 2006 Year in Review: Our Favorites E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 65The Around Comics 2006 Year in Review continues with our top picks of the
past 12 months. Mark Beatty and John Siuntres join us as we discuss our favorite
series, single issues, writers, artists, publisher of the year and what we're
looking forward to in 2007. 2006 was a fantastic year in comics. Thank you from
the entire crew at Around Comics for helping to make it a year we'll never
forget!

Around Comics Ep. 064 - 2006 Year in Review E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 642006 - The Year in News. The panel welcomes John Siuntres and Mike
Norton as Tom takes the rest of the year off. We go over the top news headlines
of 2006. Listen in as we comment on some of the biggest announcements that did
and didn't happen this past year. Civil War, 52, Iron Man the movie, Dark Horse
turns 20 and much much more. Make sure to come back Thursday when we discuss our
favorite comics and comic creators of 2006. Happy New Year!

2006

Dec 27, 2006

Around Comics Ep. 063 - The Last Christmas Special pt. II E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 63The Last Christmas Special continues with comic book creator Hilary Barta. The panel discusses Hilary's career which includes work on such titles as Plastic Man, Nexus, American Splendor, Hellboy Junior, Tom Strong, Tomorrow Stories and many many more. Hilary has worked as a writer, inker, penciler and cover artist for almost 25 years. John Siuntres joins the panel for a quick look at the weeks books in our last edition of Top of the Stack for the year. Make sure to tune in next week as we take a look back on 2006 in our Year in Review.Happy Holidays!

Around Comics Ep. 062 - The Last Christmas Special pt. I E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 62
The Last Christmas Special. Gerry Duggan, Brian Posehn and
Hillary Barta join us for this hilarious Christmas show. We talk about their irreverent
series The Last Christmas, their own special Holliday stories, Brian's balls,
dog vomit, Jerry Lewis and more. Don't miss a second of this very heartwarming,
ad bowel-loosening and special episode.

Around Comics Ep. 061 - Gene Colan E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 61Gene Colan has helped define some of comics most cherished characters and
properties. Whether you know his work from Iron-Man, Captain America, Howard the
Duck, Dr. Strange, Tomb of Dracula, Daredevil or countless others, his style and
skill are unmistakable. Around Comics welcomes one of the true legends in comics
for a discussion about his life and career. From his time serving in World War
II to his upcoming Captain America project with Ed Brubaker, we cover all the
bases with "Gentleman" Gene Colan.

Around Comics Ep. 060 - News and Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 60The panel goes over the top headlines in Wire2Wire Comic
Book News and give our Top of the Stack recommendations. The light news week gives us
more time to dig deeper into the weeks new releases and debate what the panel
like and disliked. Listen in as Chris, Sal, Tom and guest Dave Wachter talk
about several books including The Spirit, The Red Prophet, Fear Agent, JLA and
more. Come back on Thursday for our interview with comic book legend Gene
Colan.

Around Comics Ep. 059 - Jason Aaron

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 59Around Comics goes to "The Other Side" with author Jason Aaron. Jason discusses his intense series about two opposing soldiers in Vietnam and his personal ties to the war. Heavily researched both in it's art and writing, The Other Side is a grim and shocking look at the horrors of war. Jason also talks about his other project at Vertigo, Scalped. Due to hit stores this January.

Around Comics Ep. 058 - News and Reviews E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 58The panel goes over the weeks top headlines in Wire2Wire Comic Book News, and give there reviews and recommendations in Top of the Stack. Listen in as Chris, Sal, Tom and guests John Siuntres and Mike Norton talk about the week in comic books. Recommendations include Superman Confidential, Detective Comics, Welcome To Tranquility and Jonah Hex . Come back on Thursday for a discussion with Jason Aaron, the author of The Other Side from Vetigo..

Around Comics Ep. 057 - Digital Distribution E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 57Digital distribution is one of the hot button topics in the fast paced ever changing world of comics and technology. Still in it's infancy, digital distribution has for the most part been another word for comic book piracy, but things are changing. This week we talk with Chris Crank of Devil's Due Publishing about a new venture. It's called Pullboxonline.com and it is an online store that sells digital versions of comics. We discuss the pros and cons of digital comics and where we think the industry is headed.

Around Comics Ep. 056 - News and Reviews

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 56Around Comics debuts it's new format! In the first of two new episodes this week the panel goes over the weeks top headlines in Wire2Wire Comic Book News, and give there reviews and recommendations in Top of the Stack. Listen in as Chris, Sal, Tom and guest John Siuntres talk about the week in comic books. This week's recommendations include Green Lantern, The Immortal Iron Fist, Captain America and Hip Flask. Come back on Thursday for a round table discussion on digital distribution with special guest Chris Crank.

Around Comics Ep. 054 - Jonathan Hickman E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 54Around Comics welcomes Jonathan Hickman. The creator of the new series "The
Nightly News" talks about the unique graphic style and political focus of his
limited series. We check in with Pat Loika at Wizard World Texas and call Jeremy
Haun on his way to the movies. John Siuntres joins us as we go over the weeks
headlines in Wire2Wire Comic Book News and we wrap things up with a look at the
weeks new releases in Top of the Stack.

Around Comics Ep. 053 - Homosexuality in Comics E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 53Homosexuality in Comic Books. This week we welcome Steve D from the Comic Book Queers Podcast, to talk about the roles of Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual and Transgender characters in mainstream comics. Northstar, the Rawhide Kid, Rene Montoya and others have led the way for mainstream publishers to represent the Gay community. Have they done a good job? Is there more work ahead? Has it caused problems and what is the fan reaction? We also go over the weeks news as well as Top of the Stack. Don't miss this fantastic, intelligent and fun discussion, you won't find on any other podcast.

Around Comics Ep. 052 - Spooktacular E

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 52Around Comics celebrates Halloween in style. Join in as we talk with modern
horror master Steve Niles. Also joining the discussion are comic creators Tim
Seeley (Hack/Slash & Loaded Bible) and Jesse Bausch (Strange Detective
Tales). Brent Schoonover checks in on the Hotline to tell us more about his book
Horrorwood, along with some of his favorite horror comics. Tom quotes Young
Frankenstein for most of the episode, but we still manage to go over the top
headlines in Wire2Wire comic book news and read a few listener e-mails. Happy
Halloween!

Around Comics Ep. 051 - Gateway Comics

AroundComics.com Comic Books Culture Podcast Ep. 51Gateway Comics. Whether it's Star Wars, Star Trek, Dr. Who, G.I. Joe,
movie adaptations or comics based on Saturday morning cartoons, these comic
books have lead unsuspecting fans into the world of comics and opened the door
to other titles. We introduce a new segment
called "Comics 101" where Sal teaches us the history of comics. Don't miss out
on all the weeks headlines in Wire2Wire Comic Book News, and our revamped Top of
the Stack segment. There are lots of listener e-mails and voicemails to go over
as well.

Around Comics Ep. 050 - Part II E

The Chicago Mini-Con rolls on. We finish up the evening with Bill Reinhold, Franchesco!, Doug Klauba, Rafael Nieves, listener emails, voicemails, and a buch of sloppy, wet, thank yous to everone. Don't miss part two of this crazy day in the Chicago Comics Scene.

Around Comics Ep. 049 E

Jimmy Palmiotti gives us the business. Crossing genres and spinning great tales have become trademarks of his work with writing partner Justin Gray. Whether it's gun fights in the old west, Superhero stories from a different perspective or funky 70s like action romps there's something for just about every comics fan in their work. Listen in as Jimmy talks comics, movies, TV and shares some great stories We even get to talk with his lovely lady, Amanda Conner. As always we go over the weeks top headlines in Wire2Wire Comics News and give our Top of the Stack reviews and recommendations.

Around Comics Ep. 048B

Greg Rucka Part II. The second part of our interview with Greg Rucka explores his work on Wonder Woman and how the death of Max Lord came about. We take a longer look into the world of Queen & Country and how the series has jumped from comics to novels and back again. We wrap the episode up with two bonus interviews. First we talk with the talented artist of Capote in Kansas and Queen & Country, Chris "Skippy" Samnee. Then Tom interviews one of Marvel's least talkative heroes.

Around Comics Ep. 048A

Greg Rucka Part I. You know we couldn't fit Greg Rucka into just one episode.
Listen in to the first half of our lengthy conversation with the writer of such
titles as Wolverine, Batman, Wonder Woman, Gotham Central, Adventures of
Superman and of course... Queen & Country. Stick around after the interview
for Wire2Wire comics news, our weekly picks, and some fantastic listener e-mails
and voicemails. Special guests include Matt Richter, Dave Wachter and Mike
Norton.

Around Comics Ep. 047

Around Comics A La Carte. This week we clear out the
refrigerator and try out a few new segments. Chris plays Five Questions with
Tom and Sal. Tom performs a dramatic reenactment of Flash #4. We play some fun
voice mails and respond to listener e-mail. As usual we go over the weekly news
and give our Top of the Stack reviews and recommendations. Special guest Dave
Wachter drops in to say hello and sticks around for the second half.

Around Comics Ep. 046

The Greatest Creative Runs in comic book history is the topic of this episode. While the Stan Lee and Jack Kirby Fantastic Four may remain the standard for greatness there are plenty more to talk about. Join us as John Siuntress and Simon MacDonald sit in on the panel as we go through what we consider the best runs in comics. As always we have Wire2Wire Comic Book News and Top of the Stack reviews and recommendations.

Around Comics Ep. 045

The John Byrne interview Part II. Listen in as we continue our talk with comics legend John Byrne. We hear about his relationship with Chris Claremont, why his stay on the All New Atom was so short, and how Kitty Pryde was almost named Thunderbird! Listeners at the store get to ask their questions and some of the answers may surprise you.

Around Comics Ep. 044 E

Around
Comics welcomes John Byrne. One of the most influential and controversial
creators in comics joins Around Comics for a lengthy conversation discussing his
three decade career. Find out the only thing DC wouldn't let him do with the
Superman relaunch. The real origin of Kitty Pryde will surprise you. The Next
Men? Chris Claremont? Peter David? Listen and find out. Also, the panel goes
over the weeks top headlines in Wire2Wire Comics News and we give our weekly
reviews and recommendations in Top of the Stack.
Check back
later this week for John Byrne Part II

Around Comics Ep. 043 E

Around Comics welcomes Ande Parks to the panel to discuss multi- talented creators in comics. These are the creators that have shown the ability to cover a variety of tasks involved in creating a comic. Whether it's writing, editing, drawing, inking, coloring etc. Tom has an exclusive and very candid interview with one of key figures in the Marvel Universe in a special report. We cover the weeks top headlines, and open the panel up to include several people that wandered into the shop this week.

Around Comics Ep. 042

Around Comics welcomes writer Ed Brubaker for an
extended interview to talk about his exciting new project with former
partner-in-crime, Sean Phillips. Brubaker and Phillips reunite on the noir
project Criminal, published under Marvel's Icon label. The current writer of
Captain America,
Daredevil and the Uncanny X-Men discusses the new street level series that
explores the world of professional criminals.

Around Comics Ep. 041 E

Around Comics welcomes John Siuntres of Wordballoon, and Crank and Mike Norton of the Crankcast to the roundtable this week. The topic of discussion centers on whether or not Marvel and DC have a responsibility to produce comic books outside of the super hero genre. We also go over the weeks comic book news and give our Top of the Stack recommendations with a special appearance by Scar Tissue artist Dave Wachter.

Around Comics Ep. 040 E

Wizard World Chicago Pt. 3 The last one, we promise! Join Around Comics as we walk the convention floor and talk with some of today's top comic book creators. Hear interviews with Paul Jenkins, David Mack, Paul Azaceta, Jeremy Haughn, John Romita Jr. and more!

Around Comics Ep. 039 E

Around Comics welcomes writer Simon Oliver to the show this week. Who is Simon Oliver? That's the question that comic fans have been asking since Vertigo's "The Exterminators" hit shelves. Simon tells us about the unique journey that lead him to the world of comics. So grab a can of bug spray and pull up a chair to this weeks panel, it's gonna be a killer. Also, listener voicemail, Wire2Wire comic book news and our Top of the Stack reviews and recommendations.

Around Comics Ep. 038 E

Wizard World Chicago Pt. 2. The gang sits down on Saturday night, with
a host of friends from the show to talk about the convention, sketches,
artist alley, panels and more. Guests include Dave Wachter & Pat
Loika from Ronin Studios, Neil Gorman from the Comicology Podcast, Mark
Beatty from Darktower Comics, Sean & Jim from the Raging Bullets
Podcast, David Price, Vince B and Matt S., Dan 'Papercut" C, Weekrocker, Dustin Draise and more.

Around Comics Ep. 037 E

Wizard World Chicago 2006 is now in the books. This episode includes a quick recap of some of the weekends amazing events and reflections of a great con experience. We go back to Friday evening for an extended talk with one of the the truly up and coming comic book publishers in the industry, Ape Entertainment. One of the largest groups ever on an episode of Around Comics talks about the strategies of running a great company and producing titles that have something to offer for almost any fan.

Around Comics Ep. 036 E

Sal on a Podcast! With Chris and Tom away, Sal has hijacked the show. It's all Sal, all the time. Featuring Bernie Gonzalez with interviews frome San-Diego Comic-Con, Wire2Wire Comics Book News, An all-Sal Top of the Stack and some special surprises.

Around Comics Ep. 035 E

Licensing in comics is the topic this week. The panel welcomes artists Scott Johnson and surprise guest Mike Norton to discuss creating the images that are used in the packaging and products that fill the shelves of retailers. We talk about reaching readers through licensing, and some of the restrictions that artists run into. G.I. Joe with no guns? Are you serious?!

Around Comics Ep. 034 E

Around Comics welcomes John Siuntres back to the panel for a casual conversation about comic books. We discuss how the comics industry is selling their product whether it's through single issues, trades or other avenues. The everchanging face of the comic book industry has seen it's ups and down, but fans will always be there. You never know what the panel will discuss, but it's always around comics.

Around Comics Ep. 033 E

This week we discuss 35 years of changes in comic books. Around Comics welcomes Bob Bretall to the panel to talk about comic distribution, writing styles, the internet, conventions and more. Wire2Wire news and Top of the Stack return with a Giant Sized Bonus comic book review and recommendation segment. Remember to listen in as we unveil our July contest. Special guest appearances by Matt Sommer, Bernie Gonzalez, Jon Hook and Bruce Rosenberger.

Around Comics Ep. 031 E

Join us for the second part of our interview with the creators of The Cross Bronx. Ivan Brandon takes over for Michael Oeming to give his thoughts on their new project. Ivan discusses other projects like the upcoming 24/7 anthology, NYC Mech, Borderline and much more. Ivan gives us the lowdown on some amazing international talent as well. At the end, Chris, Sal and Tom collapse after 2 days of furious podcast recording.

Around Comics Ep. 030 E

Around Comics welcomes Michael Avon Oeming for part one of our two part interview with the creators of The Cross Bronx. Join us as we discuss Michael's new project, his relationship with Alex Toth, The return of the God of Thunder, and much more. Look for part two of our Cross Bronx interview with Ivan Brandon later this week.

Around Comics Ep. 029 E

Comics on TV. The premier of Blade inspired the panel to discuss comic book adaptations on television. Can Blade survive past the movies? What does it take to make a compelling show that's based on a b-list comic character? The Flash, The Incredible Hulk, Witchblade and others are discussed as we welcome Mike Oliveri, Bernie Gonzalez, and Matt Sommer to the roundtable.

Around Comics Ep. 028 E

Mike Oliveri joins the Around Comics panel to discuss his bookWerewolves: Call of the Wild. We talk about the horror genre in comics, what it takes to get a new independent comic off the ground, and why werewolves are cooler than vampires. We go over the top headlines in Wire2Wire News and give our weekly reviews in Top of the Stack.

Around Comics Ep. 027 E

Comics meet music as Kieron Gillen explains the concept and process of writing his new series Phonogram. Kieron talks about how music is magic to him, and how Phonogram takes that to a new literal level. The second half of the show has a special surprise guest. Wordballoon's John Siuntres joins us for Wire2Wire Comics News and Top of the Stack, and drops a few names along the way.

Around Comics Ep. 026

We welcome our May contest winner Matt Kramer to the show to talk about his suggested topic. Cross medium creators and their impact on the comics industry. We take a look at the likes of Kevin Smith, Joss Whedon, Greg Rucka, Charlie Huston and others. This weeks news focuses more on the independent and alternative press after last weeks Big 2 convention wrap-up. The panel gives their Top of the Stack reviews and Tom tries to save the show as Chris fills in as producer for Sal. Hilarity ensues...

Around Comics Ep. 024 E

Around Comics welcomes artist Steve Bryant to the panel to discuss webcomics. Whether they stand on their own or are used as promotions for printed works, webcomics are here to stay. We take a look at some of our favorites, listener favorites, and talk about the webcomic culture. In Wire2Wire News we give a complete wrap-up of Wizard Word Philly. In Top of the Stack we make a case for The Exterminators and more.

Around Comics Ep. 023 E

Join us as we welcome Dave Wachter and Mark Beatty to the panel to talk about how the movie industry is affecting comics and how comics are making an impact in the movies we watch. We talk about some movies that got it right, some that didn't and about the numerous comics we'd love to see hit the big screen. As always we have Wire2Wire Comics News and Top of the Stack reviews and recommendations.

Around Comics Ep. 022 E

What makes a good villain? We take a look at some of our favorite bad guys and decide if it's brute strength, diabolical mastermind, psychological terror, or being just plain crazy. Chris, Tom and Sal welcome Mark Beatty and Dave Wachter to the panel for a quick discussion on what makes a villain truly villainous.

Around Comics Ep. 021 E

Around Comics welcomes columnist Stephanie Mangold to the panel to discuss the stereotypes of comic book fans. We take a look at fanboys, fangirls, indie snobs, the Simpsons Comic Guy, personal hygiene and just about everything else that may offend you. As usual we have Wire2Wire Comics News and Top of the Stack recommendations. We also announce our May contest winner and much more.

Around Comics Ep. 020 E

Join the Around Comics panel as we welcome Matt Fraction. If you don't know the name yet, you will soon. We talk with the man that will lead The Punisher into Civil War. We also discuss his creator owned works Cassanova and The Five Fists of Science. Find out how Matt handles Punisher Trivia and answers listener e-mails. We also cover the weeks top headlines in Wire2Wire Comics News and give our suggestions in Top of the Stack.

Around Comics Ep. 019

In an informal chat we discuss what is more important when deciding what books to buy. Is the writer, artist or character the deciding factor when you pull a title off the shelf? Join Chris, Sal, Tom and Mark as we mention some of our favorites in all three categories. Mark also gives us some insight into the buying habits of his customers.

Around Comics Ep. 018

Comics 101 Suggestions for New Readers. The Around Comics crew welcomes Collected Comics Library host Chris Marshall to the panel. How have collected editions changed the way new readers can approach the medium? What are the best places to start reading comics? Why does Tom love comics with gorillas? These are the tough questions we try to answer in another action packed discussion at the roundtable. Also, listener e-mails, Wire2Wire Comics News and Top of the Stack reviews.

Around Comics Ep. 017 E

Join us as we take the gloves off and go to Civil War! Around Comics
welcomes a mega- sized seven member panel to discuss their thoughts on
the issues of Civil War. Hero registration, the media, government
control, civil rights and security. This is a can't miss episode of
seven comic book fans choosing sides

Around Comics Ep. 016

Around
Comics begins recording at their new home Dark Tower Comics! Free Comic Book day
is the topic of discussion. Join Chris and Sal as we welcome Matt Sommer and
Mark Beatty. Is Free Comic Book Day a good way to drive new customers to comic
shops? How do stores prepare and promote the event? We talk to real life kids as
they pick up free comics and then the panel goes to Civil War!
Plus
Wire2Wire news, listener emails, Top of the Stack and more.

Around Comics Ep. 015

The Company Men. Creators that are associated with one company even if they have done work in other places. These artists, writers, editors and publishers have left an undeniable imprint on the icons of the companies they've worked for. Join Chis, Sal, Tom and guest Ian Levenstein as they take a trip through comics history to find The Company Men. Make sure not to miss the special Jack Kirby Crash Course history lesson by Bruce Rosenberger! Plus Wire2Wire news, listener emails, Top of the Stack and more.

Around Comics Ep. 014 E

Product Placement. Whether it's Coke, Nike or Chevrolet, Madison Avenue has taken notice of the marketing potential of comic books and the purchasing power of the core demographic. In response, The Big Two have opened the doors for companies to advertise not only in comics, but in the art of the stories themselves. Hold on, true believer, product placement is coming to a comic book near and dear to your heart. Join Chis, Sal, Dave and Tom as they discuss the pros and cons of this new advertising initiative. Plus Wire2Wire news, listener emails, Top of the Stack and more.

Around Comics Ep. 012 E

Location. Location. Location. The Around Comics crew visit Metropolis, Gotham, Fawcet City, Sin City, The Big Apple and many other backdrops that our favorite heroes call home. Join Chris, Sal, Tom and Rick as they find out what's the low-down on the streets and in the gutters. Plus Wire2Wire news, Top of the Stack and more.

Around Comics Ep. 011 E

Conventions. Comic book con season is here so Chris and Sal invited Scar tissue Artist Dave Wachter, and comic fan David Price to talk all about our favorite summer geek fests. From the panels, to the quarter bins we give you the ins and out of Comic Cons. All that plus Wire2Wire news and Top of the Stack.

Around Comics Ep. 010 E

The Phil Hester interview. Join Chris and Sal as they welcome longtime comic book professional and newly named Ant-Man artist Phil Hester to talk about working on Nightwing, Green Arrow, his indy work and even some fantasy football.

Around Comics Ep. 009 E

The many faces of Manga. Join Chris and Sal as the are introduced into the wild and amazing world of Manga. From Giant robots, to alien princesses, we talk about the history and future of this extremely popular form of comics from Japan. Plus Wire2Wire news, Top of the Stack and more.

Around Comics Ep. 008 E

Indy, Alternative, Small Press. Whatever you want to call it, as long as it's not mainstream. Join Chris and Sal as they welcome Bruce Rosenburger from the KomicsKast and Comics Crossover podcasts, to talk about all those wonderful "other" comics. From Cerebus to Raw, Rocketo to Acme Novelty, Print on Demand to Webcomics, we take this week to discuss the wonderful and crowded world of self-published, creator owned, mini and other comic books. Where did they come from and where are they going? Plus Wire2Wire news, Top of the Stack and listener emails.

Around Comics Ep. 007 E

House of Ideas. In part two of our 4 part retrospective on the major comic book publishers, we take a look at Marvel Comics. From Avengers Dissassembled, to the Road to Civil War, join Chis Sal and Mark as we dissasemble the Marvel U. Plus news, listener emails, top of the stack and more. Warning, this show contais spoilers, listen at your own risk.

Around Comics Ep. 006 E

Crisis Clinic. Join Chris, Sal and Tom as they discuss the current state of the DC Universe and what the future might bring. From Identity Crisis to On Year Later and 52. Also the weeks top headlines, Top of the Stack and more.

Around Comics Ep. 005 E

Sex, violence and dirty words. All the things we love about comics but are afraid to admit. We're talking about adult themes, language and situations in today's comics. Join Sal, Tom and Matt. Plus headlines and Top of the Stack.

Around Comics Ep. 004 E

We all know it, we all use it and some of even enjoy it. The Internet. How has it changed things in comics. How do fans, publishers and creators use it to their advantage? What does the future hold. Join Chris and Sal as they welcome some very special guests from PA. The Comic Book Geek Speek crew. Bryan, Peter, Jamie and Sean talk tell us what they think about the World Wide Web. All that, plus Top of the Stack, News and more.

Around Comics Ep. 003 E

Marketing in comics. What are the major publishers doing right and what are they doing wrong? Join Chris, Sal and Tom as the discuss the ins and outs of marketing, merchandising and selling comic books. Plus this weeks Headlines, Top of the Stack and more.

About

About the "Around Comics Podcast"

Around Comics – The Comic Book Show, features the very best comic book discussion featuring fans,
industry professionals and more. The AC Heroes offer a deep knowledge of comic books, as well as a fantastic sense of humor
and a true passion for the medium. Fun, intelligent, and educational, you never know what a new show may offer, but it will
be sure to keep you entertained.